Where Are the Universal Themes

Where are the universal themes,
the parables, the parallels that might
be drawn from humdrum, quotidian
happenstance?  We languish in these ruts
we live in and bear our days with resignation
(some with equanimity) -- justifying
our inaction, our failures to break free,
with feeble lame excuses -- never a real cause:
which is, succinctly, our timorous laziness.
A broadening of perspective, a striving toward the epic,
the grandiose -- with, perhaps, the universality of
civilized urbanity, or of rural natural simplicity or even
stark objectivity --  may these be what we need? 
Here's the stale conclusion: be daring, 
brave enough to become accustomed 
to a singular (perhaps lone) existence.
When you must, be fair and listen but,
when you should, be insistently unbending 
to the pressures and opinions of your peers.
And use your mind, your unique voice, and
proclaim incessantly your messages,
even to those who turn to you
their stubbornly deaf ears.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

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

Dietrich Avatar
May 9, 2022 at 6:02 PM
ha, that last part sure rings true for me. How they love to turn to me with DEAF ears!! Good one.
Wolf Avatar
March 6, 2022 at 5:28 PM
Yours is a lonely voice in the wilderness, sad to say, Leo. Brilliant write. ~ Gershon
Krutsinger Avatar
November 1, 2021 at 11:32 PM
Fabulous advice "be daring, brave enough to become accustomed to a singular (perhaps lone) existence." I shall take it too!
DiMino Avatar
September 17, 2021 at 9:00 AM
For sure, be firmly positive in one's convictions -- having been derived from intimate conversations with self and God. There then lies the power, all power to be so. Never doubt such direct honesty. Great write my friend. Enjoyed the sound advise very much. Blessings!
Radice Avatar
September 6, 2021 at 8:37 AM
I'm picking up themes of self assertiveness and being true to oneself. It's Desiderata with more bite Leo and I love it.
Krutsinger Avatar
July 26, 2021 at 8:22 PM
Ah, so wise! Poignant and philosophically sound. "- justifying our inaction, our failures to break free, with feeble lame excuses -- never a real cause:" I so agree!
Lawless Avatar
July 26, 2021 at 6:41 PM
Leo, this should be read at the opening assembly of every school in the country. although they would have to include the boilerplate "Therapist will be available to counsel all who need a hug"
Amadore Avatar
July 26, 2021 at 7:15 PM
Thank you so much John. I would have appreciated hearing something like this -- oh so long ago...,
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