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Unmasking the Script

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Ever feel like you're living a life pre-scripted by society and family? Existentialists would say that's exactly the trap we fall into. In this poem, we explore that feeling of inauthenticity through the lens of existentialist thought.

Warmest Regards.
Daniel

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In borrowed plumes a masquerade we stage. Thoughts echo doctrines passions are preordained. From broken families where fractured spirits weep Mothers of soulful sorrow With eyes that never sleep. We inherit canvases pre-primed with societal skews. But the brush trembles in our hand Praying for a different magical muse. Why is contentment suffocating and chokes every… Rebellious spark a shroud created from what societal expectations? Desires' siren song leaves a future yet undisturbed. What once seemed a dream now tarnished by compare. Watch as Euphoria fades on envy's poisoned air. Listen, a lone chick's chirp pierces the suffocating silence. A desperate cry, a plea for authenticity in a world of conformity. Ignorance surrenders to the nascent street A mentor's loving hand Watch an infant’s heart take flight. But knowledge begins, is budding. Not just in halls of stone. Misunderstood an invisible in and of the storm. No matter how loud I yell! My words are lost to the wind. For words twist and turn and churn; Observe, their essence holds no form. Reason's firm hand against the senses' fancy leaving a stoic queen. Or perhaps bends to passions subdued. The searching mind is an elaborate script. Truths hidden in forgotten corners Desiring to be unearthed. An adventure held within A story yet to confide. Love's intoxicating calling - A terrifying vulnerability. Binds and threatens to consume the self Watch as a teardrop falls. A universe brought into absurdity. Tomes are mere stepping stones. A path for minds to pave. But now independent thought The spirit still will most likely crave. A mind that soars barriers cannot tether. True greatness found in aiding one together. This freedom, though… Is a double-edged blade. Empowers, who, Us to choose. A heavy weight is laid. This scene though pre-primed awaits our hand. To see a world where kindness takes a stand. Schooling's confines, a gilded cage, Beautiful on the outside, but stifling within. Education's torch ignites an actor's stage. We don costumes, recite prescribed lines, A preordained charade. Is this all there is? Is there more to me than just playing a role? The bygone antiquities, Lessons left unlearned; Potential slumbers, A future yet unearned. From tainted thoughts a bitter harvest sown. Unacted kindness the burden we have groomed. Imagination's spark A divine excursion. Yet trepidation lingers… Endlessly, tirelessly Look, a shadow in the astral expedition. This circuitous journey Along with questions as our guide. Through borrowed masks We search for what's deep inside. The introspective quest The truth we seek to hide. Rediscovering essence Reflecting our given name. We peer into the reflecting mirror A surface both clear and opaque. Does it reflect our quintessence Or perhaps it simply an inherited shape? But is there a soul to tame? Or are we players in a borrowed game, Our lines pre-written on a blank script page? “Actors...take your spots...lights; …and…action!” Though unseen hands may guide, The stage is ours to claim.

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Joe Maverick

Date: 6/6/2024 11:10:00 PM

Thoughts and possibiltys Daniel..' which you Here dilligentley persue.. No one fully knows Or comprehends the twists and bends.? That life will put you through.? Yet be at ease With what gifts you've recieved.' And use them For better ends.' Stay the course and truths Rewards will come to you my friend.'

Tonye George

Date: 4/2/2024 5:07:00 PM

I love the description of freedom as a double-edged blade because truly it is. There's a name for it, but are we really free? I also see life as a game, a very huge one with lots of casualties and collateral damages. Some days much words to film in and other days blank spaces to cave in but in all we speak whether we are being heard or not. "From broken families, where fractured spirits weep, Mothers of sorrow, With eyes that never sleep." I sometimes feel my spirit is fractured. Cheers Daniel.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 4/2/2024 6:30:00 PM

Dear Tonye, thank you for your reflections which are deeply insightful. I loved your honesty about feeling fractured echoes the poem's themes of struggle and resilience. Blessings, my dear friend, Daniel

Susan Manley

Date: 3/28/2024 8:41:00 PM

Something ate my reply. And it was in rhyme!! But.. Its not a script, its a soul contract with others who are in your soul family. And you decide how it plays out. - Artimus

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/29/2024 4:40:00 AM

Dear Susan, Thank you so much for your visit and reading this poem. I love Artimus, and he has many wise words. Blessings, my Friend! - Daniel

Sally Eslinger

Date: 3/28/2024 4:26:00 PM

—2 so who writes the scripts? I guess that is the ? If we go by God’s will, westill write & Get Approval or Editing (haha). Then, at some point in getting older, truth & wisdom Does create rebels who find tears in the pages of script. Babies & young kids also are tbeir own. I coukd go on…maybe this incredible poem shoukd opgo on in a blog?

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/28/2024 4:42:00 PM

Dear Sally, your reflections on life's purpose and the cosmic struggle are deeply felt. I am glad thr metaphor of "Maestro" struck a chord with you, and I'm honored by your interpretation. Your wisdom, gained through years of experience, adds depth to our understanding of faith and existence. I also was part of that generation and it is amazing what we believed then. Thank you for sharing your insights. As for continuing the discussion, a blog sounds like a fantastic idea. Your perspective is invaluable and deserves to be explored further. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Sally Eslinger

Date: 3/28/2024 4:18:00 PM

1st- do u recall our Lord saying, The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Pray fervently (for more)…Daniel, i am 73+3mos. At 19, as a hippie, there was lots of saying Life is a circus…Now i believe it’s likely a dimension in a cosmic war. I saw you read “Maestro,which i thought a brilliant metaphor for God. Aethusts being i. The audience asleep…

Sotto Poet

Date: 3/28/2024 12:29:00 PM

Dear Daniel, Your articulation through electronic means is truly remarkable. I find myself enthralled by the depth of your words. Your poem is exceptionally clever. Your assertion about our society's indulgence in immediate gratification and hedonism is accurate. It is disheartening to realize that we are subtly manipulated by external influences, adhering to societal norms and regulations. However, we are fortunate that there is ample chance for those willing to venture into the unknown. A fave

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/28/2024 4:14:00 PM

Dear Sotto, Your thoughtful response to my poem warms my heart. I'm glad you connected with the themes of societal indulgence and the pursuit of immediate gratification. It's reassuring to know that there are others who see beyond the surface and recognize the importance of venturing into the unknown. Thank you for your kind words and for appreciating the depth of my expression. Blessings, my friend, - Daniel

Craig Cornish

Date: 3/28/2024 6:44:00 AM

We have a cornucopia of ponderance here, artfully splayed!

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/28/2024 3:58:00 PM

Hello Craig, thank you so much for your visit and I so appreciate your comments. - Blessings, Daniel

Peter Dome

Date: 3/28/2024 1:13:00 AM

Daniel. You must have swallowed a dictionary and, a full set of Encyclopedia Brittanica. You express yourself so electronically eloquently. I'm struggling to even read. Another excellent clever write. True what you say. We have become hedonists. and live for the moment.I was only thinking the other day about what you said,.we are all actors, some of us drama Queens. We are brainwashed, someone sets the rules and we confirm, well done Pete.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/28/2024 4:30:00 AM

Hey Pete, Haha, your comment cracked me up! Well, I must admit, those dictionaries and encyclopedias do come in handy sometimes. Don't sweat it; reading between the lines is an art in itself, right? And yes, life's a stage, and we're all just trying to find our roles in this grand production. Thanks for engaging and commenting on my poem. Let's keep questioning those rules and living on that stage. Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Andrea Dietrich

Date: 3/27/2024 3:24:00 PM

You are such a a "thinking" poet, my friend. Did you major in philosophy? I would love to know ultimate truths but I think only in death will we. know them. It was interesting reading everyone's thoughts below. Everyone so different and it's all due to the culture and family we are born into. If I were Japanese I would love raw fish and rice! Loved the line about borrowed masks.. I do not ponder much. What will be will be. It's predestiny.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 5:39:00 PM

Dear Andrea, your insights are profound. While I didn't major in philosophy, I've always been drawn to questioning life's mysteries and have actively pursued philosophy through books, research and classes. Your reflection on ultimate truths and cultural influence is insightful. The diversity of perspectives shared enriches our understanding of humanity. Your acceptance of predestiny adds an intriguing layer to the discourse. Thank you for engaging with my poem and for sharing your unique perspective. Blessings, my friend! - Daniel

David Kavanagh

Date: 3/27/2024 2:32:00 PM

I often ponder (quite a lot) Daniel, the existentialist question, and human condition, by playing the devils advocate, I know you are a man of faith, yet never afraid to philosophically debate all possibilities of existence, which is a fine trait to see in any human being, a thought provoking poem, one which this agnostic enjoyed very much, cheers David

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 5:35:00 PM

Hello David, your introspective nature and willingness to explore existential questions from various angles are admirable. It's heartening to connect with someone who values philosophical discourse regardless of differing beliefs. Your appreciation for the poem despite our differing perspectives speaks volumes about your open-mindedness and intellectual curiosity. Thank you for engaging with my work in such a thought-provoking manner. Cheers to meaningful conversations and I love to banter with the Devil’s Advocate. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Duke Beaufort

Date: 3/27/2024 1:35:00 PM

Daniel, You have described so many of the ins and outs of what influences us. It is indeed hard to know what we really and truly want for ourselves. Fortunately, there is time for an adventurous person to see how things feel and make adjustments. The older I get the more I question what life's purpose is. Who can really know? However, I do try to be kind and follow the last line of your poem. One advantage of my recent retirement is being able to select what I would like to do with more care.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 5:33:00 PM

Dear Duke, your reflections hit close to home. It's comforting to know others grapple with the complexities of self-discovery and life's purpose. Your journey of questioning and seeking kindness is honorable. Retirement sounds like a time of newfound freedom and intentional living, a phase I aspire to reach one day, hopefully May 1st 2025. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and perspective my friend. - Blessings, Daniel

Victor Buhagiar

Date: 3/27/2024 11:04:00 AM

You begin your poem in an excellent way: a masquerade we stage. For we are puppets of the powers that be. Free will is important but we abuse it if we choose evil.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 5:30:00 PM

Thank you, Victor, for your thoughtful feedback. I'm glad you appreciated the opening lines of my poem. Indeed, the notion of our lives as a masquerade controlled by external forces is deeply felt. Your insight on the importance of free will and the responsibility it entails adds depth to the poem's thematic exploration. - Blessings, Daniel

Jude Herrick

Date: 3/27/2024 2:55:00 AM

Sometimes life, when dulled by media can get cartoonist and dulled. A game of the lesser. But that is a trick of the devil. Everyone has a Reason To Be. Not to be a number in a pathetic school system of the State, then learn your get along societal cues in College. I think there is pre-destination when your character output strongly leans. Free will is always paramount as well and has the final say. God knowing doesn't change free will. What a total mind crime. I love it, Daniel.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 4:07:00 AM

Hello Jude, your reflection dives deep into the intricacies of existence, highlighting the struggle against societal norms and the quest for individual purpose. Your words echo the importance of resisting conformity and embracing the essence of free will. Thank you for delving into the philosophical depths of my poem and for sharing your insightful perspective. It's truly appreciated. - Blessings, Daniel

Len Gasun

Date: 3/27/2024 12:59:00 AM

This is a superb existential poem my dear poet friend and philosopher . I love this poem a lot and had extremely enjoyed it. I like and I strongly agree with you on your last stanza. Thank you so much for sharing and for your visit on my page. God bless you always and your writings. Hugs

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 4:05:00 AM

Dear Len, your heartfelt appreciation warms my soul. Knowing that my words touched you brings immense joy. It's in the connection between souls that poetry truly thrives. Your agreement with the essence of the final stanza reaffirms the universality of our existential quest. Thank you for your kind words and blessings. Sending warm hugs and gratitude your way. - Daniel

I Am Anaya

Date: 3/26/2024 5:00:00 PM

Daniel you’ve covered so much ground, profound “What once a dream, now tarnished by compare, Euphoria fades on envy's poisoned air” A dysfunctional race, to blame or not to blame. Some experiment throughout life without God’s grace and some do. We journey on through seeking answers to the same questions of our existence and rationalize. I like to think that it’s biological, different phases we journey through always searching and gathering evidence. We are only actors on a stage. There's hope, blessings~Anaya

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 4:02:00 AM

Dear Anaya. Thank you for your thoughtful analysis which wonderfully delves into the complexities of existence, reflecting on the constant struggle between aspiration and reality. Your words ring true in many ways, highlighting the perpetual quest for meaning amidst life's uncertainties. Indeed, we're all actors on this stage, seeking understanding amid the chaos. I loved your perspective which is enlightening. Blessings on our shared journey of discovery. - Daniel

Don Iannone

Date: 3/26/2024 12:06:00 PM

Daniel, Powerful poem! Your poem plunges into the struggle between societal expectations and the authentic self, portraying life as a masquerade where individuals are forced into roles and beliefs not their own. It grapples with identity and pre-scripted lives. Ultimately, it champions individuality and authenticity, urging us to seize control of our narrative amidst societal pressures and find true greatness, while acknowledging the heavy responsibility that comes with freedom. Cheers, Don

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/27/2024 3:59:00 AM

Thank you deeply, Don. Your insightful reflection connects with the essence of my poem. It's a testament to our perpetual battle in reconciling societal norms with our genuine selves. Your words affirm the significance of embracing our uniqueness amidst the conformity around us. In many ways we need to continue to navigate our journey, holding onto authenticity as our guiding light. Cheers to our pursuit of genuine greatness. - Blessings, Daniel

Robert Gorelick

Date: 3/26/2024 10:53:00 AM

Dear Daniel, As always, you have served up tasty food for thought. I have never bought into John Calvin's grim doctrine or predestination (maybe when I'm really blue) but what we call free will also has serious pitfalls. For example Einstein wrote "what we call common sense in but a collection of prejudices we acquire by age eighteen" If I'd been raised in New England in the Seventeenth Century, would I have been hunting witches? I prefer to think not, but who knows? Stay well my friend. Robert

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 11:35:00 AM

Dear Robert, I am grateful for your thoughtful response to my existential poem. Indeed, the notion of free will is fraught with complexities and uncertainties, as Einstein aptly noted about our acquired prejudices. Your contemplation on the influence of upbringing and societal norms prompts introspection about our choices and biases. I am somewhere in between predestination and free will. Biblically, I can make a case for both. Let's continue navigating these philosophical waters with open minds and hearts. Thank you again, my friend. Blessings, Daniel

Tom Woody

Date: 3/26/2024 8:03:00 AM

Your last line says it all, free will means we are ultimately the masters of our own destiny. Fate and predetermination are fallacies created by men. However, as your penultimate line suggests, and from a worldview influenced by the Bible, we can choose to be guided by the Creator or his nemesis. There are no middle roads, no alternatives, though some may wish it. For me, I'll choose the former and do the best I can

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 8:48:00 AM

Hello Tom, Thank you for your thoughtful response to my existential poem. Your assertion that free will empowers us as masters of our destiny rings true. The dichotomy you present, influenced by biblical teachings, between choosing to be guided by the Creator or succumbing to his nemesis, offers wonderful Christian insight. Your unwavering commitment to choosing the former is inspirational and reflects on choices and striving to align them with the path of God. Thank you for sharing your perspective and embodying such conviction in your beliefs. Ultimately, it is what is in God's plan that matters most. - Blessings, Daniel

Richard Lamoureux

Date: 3/26/2024 4:24:00 AM

An epic masterpiece. What a pleasure to read and contemplate. “players in a borrowed game” I like that stream of thought. A standout amidst a numer of standout lines.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 6:00:00 AM

Hello Richard, Thank you for your affirming comments and I appreciate the visit. Have a great day my friend. - Blessings, Daniel

Mystic Rose Rose

Date: 3/26/2024 4:13:00 AM

Oh Daniel, I understand this poem much more than you know. Being raised a good Italian girl, I had far to go when I moved to TO, and far I went and deep waters I swam, I ran, sometimes I walked, and here I am finally in my old age, ME< thank you for always delighting my heart, your Amazing !

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 4:20:00 AM

Dear Rose, your journey from your Italian roots to TO reflects the depth of human experience captured in my poem. Your resilience and determination shine through your words, demonstrating the power of personal growth and self-discovery. I'm honored to have touched your heart with my words. Thank you for your unwavering support and kind words. You're truly amazing, too! - Blessings, Daniel

Valsa George

Date: 3/26/2024 2:34:00 AM

This world is indeed a stage and we are actors. But how well we should act is within our capacity and our choice. It is not predetermined. Existentialism is a theory where man needs to be responsible for his development as he has free will. To a great extent, we can carve our own path. I do believe in the existentialist thought. Some people blame everything on fate. It is absurd. Man cannot chisel out everything as he likes. But definitely through concerted effort, he can change the course of his life. We can rediscover or rewrite our lot. There are cages, but we can break free of barriers. You have a philosopher's mind dear Daniel and your thoughts are so sagacious! "This scene, though pre-primed, awaits our hand, To see a world where kindness takes a stand." This I believe is the crux of the poem. Excellent!

Tom Woody
Date: 3/26/2024 7:57:00 AM

Intelligent answer Valsa. Agreed

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 4:17:00 AM

Dear Valsa, your profound understanding of existentialism beautifully complements the essence of my poem. Indeed, we are not merely puppets of fate; we possess the power of choice and the capacity to shape our destinies. Your perspective aligns with my belief in the existentialist philosophy, where individual responsibility and free will reign supreme. Your eloquent reflections showcase a philosopher's mind also, and I deeply appreciate your interpretation of the poem's core message. Thank you for recognizing the importance of kindness in navigating life's stage. - Blessings, my friend!!

Daniel Caplin

Date: 3/25/2024 11:47:00 PM

Hi Daniel , what a fascinating and in depth write , the worlds a stage and we are merely actors , preordained ? I think we have paths in life and it depends which one we choose to take , I simply love this poem , as it reminds me of my own journey, and I've tried all my life to rewrite my scripted page . Absolutely stunning in every detail , Daniel

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 4:13:00 AM

Hello Daniel, I like your insight into my existential poem. It's like you've delved into the depths of my thoughts. While some may see life as preordained, I believe in the power of choice and forging our own paths. Your appreciation means a lot, primarily as it reflects my own quest to defy the scripted narrative. Thank you for seeing the beauty in every detail. - Blessings, Daniel

Paige Hind

Date: 3/25/2024 6:23:00 PM

This goes hand in hand with some things I have wondered. I stand with the opinion that Love is the only authentic path- it creates life after all. Beautiful and thought-provoking work- a real enjoyment seeing someone write on existentialism- it's always wondered me

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/26/2024 4:11:00 AM

Dear Paige, wow, your comment means a lot. It's so interesting to hear your thoughts on love being the answer. Yes, you are so right for it makes a powerful case. Thanks for sharing your perspective - it enriches the poem's meaning. Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Ink Empress

Date: 3/25/2024 2:54:00 PM

I have no words, but just, whoa! You really have an empathetic mind and that can be seen through this write, so many live and exist for others happiness, society and its claws shackling them from reaching where their heart longs to be. What a profound and powerful poem this is, i felt the depth of what youv conveyed here so very deeply: and i think at some point we all must have felt this way, cages by society, and all around, its an overwhelming and challenging feeling and situation that youv depicted here in such eloquence, with such strong vocabulary that fits this theme so very well. I especially felt the ending, are we all actors? Our lines pre written? So evocative and gives an introspective touch to it! A fave this is as i think i can resonate too with this! Pleasure always reading your work

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/25/2024 6:12:00 PM

Dearest Empress, your heartfelt response deeply touches me. It's comforting to find understanding in others who have also felt the weight of societal expectations. Your words validate the emotions I sought to convey, and your appreciation for the ending brings me joy. Thank you for your empathy and for sharing your thoughts so eloquently. Your support means the world to me. Blessings, my dear friend! - Blessings, Daniel

Vijay Pandit

Date: 3/25/2024 11:19:00 AM

A meaningful depiction, Daniel. Your thoughtful exploration makes the reader pause and ponder your theme. Complexity we face on stage of life as we attempt to do our part--that is all we control.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 3/25/2024 11:31:00 AM

Thank you for your visit, Vijay. It is very much appreciated! You are so right that the only thing we can change is that which is in our control. - Blessings, Daniel!