Invisibility

Daily, we look at strangers such as cashiers; they see us too. Removed from them, can we describe their faces? Can they describe ours? Invisibility seems part of the human condition. Written Feb. 20, 2017 for the Invisible Contest of Lewis Raynes
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Michaels Avatar
February 26, 2017 at 9:53 AM
Interesting... is this an observation of humanity's ability to distance themselves from one another, or a commentary on the social classes?! Good luck with the competition.
Dietrich Avatar
February 26, 2017 at 10:06 AM
I already lost out with this one, but thanks. this was a commentary on the first thing you mentioned. They have done tests that say people cannot remember anything about a person they just saw five minutes ago. In fact, the same person can come back later and tell the clerk something but the clerk won't realize he already talked to them and vice versa. I just find it very fascinating. Also how we all pray for everybody but how can we possibly know their pain? It all boggles my mind the enormity of the human experience and how we can distance ourselves from the pain of so much world suffering. We would go mad if we felt it.
Johnson Avatar
February 24, 2017 at 8:40 AM
Profoundly put. Is it callousness? Or is it God's way of protecting our hearts from overload? I see you, do you see me?
Walker Avatar
February 23, 2017 at 8:26 AM
Insightful and thought provoking poem.
White Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 10:26 PM
It's so true, isn't it? Painful....
Adams Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 7:42 PM
I think we would all treat each other with great love, respect and consideration if we could see the inner person. Insightful poem Andrea !
Bayles Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 2:01 PM
How true!
Smith Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 1:54 PM
I would think not unless it is the same person all the time.
Turner Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 8:00 AM
When I say hello to the young cashiers, they look at me like I'm a pervert (I am but that's beside the point) It seems like everyone is afraid of each other. Technology! bah humbug Thought provoking write, Andrea.
Johnson Avatar
February 24, 2017 at 8:43 AM
Thank you Daniel, you made me laugh, I can so relate.
Vinson Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 10:03 AM
This! Danny, you nailed it.
Horn Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 6:47 AM
Unless they are schizotypal and narcissistic. Google those.
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 12:22 AM
So true! I find that people look at each other less and less... everyone is either rushing around or on an electronic device. I love your unique take on the theme...I checked the line you mentioned in my sonnet. I intended to write 'you and I' but I changed it. I think 'I'm' flows better. Thanks for the tip...:))
Smith Avatar
February 21, 2017 at 12:10 AM
Emo is a man that picks up trash on a street by our church. I go to morning mass everyday and everyday Emo waves to me and every other car that passes him. It' not part of his condition. And everyone knows his name, and he doesn't even go to our church.
Vaso Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 10:02 PM
On a serious note, Its what I love about poets, we see, and for those that not only see but share a smile or a kind gesture! Well God bless thee!
Vaso Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 10:00 PM
I flirt with all the cashiers I meet, sadly they all seem to have lawyers and restraining orders! Cant say I didn't try!
Johnson Avatar
February 24, 2017 at 8:46 AM
I'm laughing at yours and Daniels comments, BUT, being one who can relate, it's not that funny. ;/
Parker Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 9:45 PM
I've spent most of my life being invisible, never fitting in..good luck
Anish Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 9:07 PM
I imagine there is less invisibility where you live. Where I live there are so many people that most of them remain invisible to each other. Stimulating write - good luck in the contest! Peace & Love Matthew Anish
Godwin Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 8:47 PM
Applause! AND now, we can add young people who only look at their phones. I see social issues looming on the horizon! Well said, Andrea, and I completely agree. Love ... CayCay
Wanter Avatar
February 20, 2017 at 8:36 PM
Once people spoke and smiled. If you do that now in many instances, you're thought to be strange. Your good writing brings us to see where we are now.
Johnson Avatar
February 24, 2017 at 8:50 AM
This is a sad comment, in which I understand. That sucks. Please don't be quiet. Love and Blessings. Love your picture and your name.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace