Hello friends and neighbors! I hope this finds you all well and full of creative writing tonight! It is such a joy to come on PS and hear from you. Either by reading your poetry or comments you've so selflessly given on my own.
I recently read this poem I will share with you, called "Pursuit " written by Stephen Dobyns. Perhaps you've beaten me to it and know the poem already? I very much enjoyed it and it spoke to me as poetry is like to do! Here, please read it before I go on...
Pursuit by Stephen Dobyns
Each thing I do I rush through so I can do
something else. In such a way do the days pass—
a blend of stock car racing and the never
ending building of a gothic cathedral.
Through the windows of my speeding car, I see
all that I love falling away: books unread,
jokes untold, landscapes unvisited.
And why?
What treasure do I expect in my future?
Rather it is the confusion of childhood
loping behind me, the chaos in the mind,
the failure chipping away at each success.
Glancing over my shoulder I see its shape
and so move forward, as someone in the woods
at night might hear the sound of approaching feet
and stop to listen; then, instead of silence
he hears some creature trying to be silent.
What else can he do but run? Rushing blindly
down the path, stumbling, struck in the face by sticks;
the other ever closer, yet not really
hurrying or out of breath, teasing its kill.
Well, what do you think? Especially about the first two lines? This speaks to me about never quite living in the present. Always a step behind, reliving past glory or mistakes,regrets. Or a step ahead, anticipating the next thing to come, trying in vain to prepare.
Each has is good side for sure... the past helps us to avoid making the same mistakes...preparing as best we can for the future and being goal oriented will lead us to success usually. BUT THERE MUST BE A BALANCE!
As with most things in life, Moderation is the key. Our main focus should be in the here and now, soaking in life and loved ones in the moment!
It is too sad, too disturbing to consider the truth of these first two lines in Mr. Dobyns poem. It is too close for comfort to see our lives as if on a hamster wheel... always running but going no where and having nothing to show for the effort.
So, tell me, what are your thoughts about the poem, or my humble interpretation of it lol! Thank you in advance for your time! Our most treasured resource! Xoxo, Your PS neighbor, Crystol <3