Deus Ex Machina? God from Machine?

Poet's Notes

(Show)

Become a Premium Member and post notes and photos about your poem like Steven Getz.

“Deus ex machina” (God From Machine) is a Latin translation of a phrase that ancient Romans used to describe the way that masked actors (who represented deities) appeared during theatrical plays held in ancient Greece. These deities usually remained on an elevated platform that was hidden from the general audience during the first two acts of the play. Once the play’s plot reached its final climax (usually during the third act), these actors representing deities were lowered down from their hidden heavenly perch by ropes and pulleys to the stage below so that they could sort out the complex problems that had developed among ‘mere mortals’ who lived on the earth’s surface.

This poem asks life's most important question, "Who (or what) is operating the pulleys of fate"?

Like Job, I’ve known what is right and wrong, And I try to take the view that is long. Though I’m not perfect, I do fear God, (Which, in modern times, does seem odd). But what is God, I ask you now? A burning bush? A sacred cow? Or is God simply an advanced being, Who seems all-knowing and all-seeing? If God sees everything everywhere, Am I important? Does He care? Or is my lifeline a script I follow In His program filled with joys and sorrows? If so, are all my tribulations Part of His computer simulations? Though these thoughts make me weary, They keep me guessing and God-fearing.

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.

Please Login to post a comment

Hilo Poet

Date: 12/27/2023 7:00:00 PM

Some may assert, some may desert, but a great many wait for the dessert ... at the table of life. Some want to be served, some want to serve, albeit, there'd be those who'll choose neither ... and who'll they be, --none but the lost of whose number will be, ... of the great many. Thank you, Steven. Aloha, William

Tom Woody

Date: 12/25/2023 1:29:00 PM

He is Jehovah, sovereign Lord of the universe. His son, Jesus, gave his life in our behalf and now rules as king, soon to crush all enemies under his feet. Then, a thousand years of peace and restoration. See ya 'round

Tom Woody
Date: 12/28/2023 6:57:00 PM

Happy to oblige

Hilo Poet
Date: 12/27/2023 7:34:00 PM

Thank you, Tom. Yours illuminated my evening's time-out, --literally, outside. Aloha, William

Kim Rodrigues

Date: 12/25/2023 12:09:00 PM

Excellent write! A great deal of pondering. We often wonder at what is behind the scenes. It is hard for mere mortals but knowing that hope is true, we lean in trust God who is in control. Enjoyed! I have a hard time writing Christian poetry. Some find it easy.

Hilo Poet
Date: 12/27/2023 7:39:00 PM

Having a moment to share on your share, in part--upon your return--Cheers to your 2024, Kim. Aloha, William

Silent One

Date: 12/25/2023 8:39:00 AM

Profound poetry Steven, a lot of think about here..

Hilo Poet
Date: 12/27/2023 7:48:00 PM

An Auld Lang Syne, Silent-One, 'twas an interesting 2023 of a ride, --unDavis-like that is, here's to 2024, my friend. An interesting bit of sharing read. Aloha, William