I love these comments and thoughts on process, Brian. Fascinating.
Amazing photos, too.
"I was left with a mess that I loved. There were individual lines that I knew were right, the themes were compelling, and while I could not make sense of it all in my mind, I liked something about the progression. It was a felt knowing." This is so good. Even more so that some of the theme was there but you weren't fully aware until reading the comments after posting the poem.
Seeing poetry through others eyes is one of the gifts I’ve found with sharing writing on Substack. And I think that is part of when a poem feels right...there’s multiple layers and often even being the author I haven’t seen them all yet!
It’s the most humbling and fascinating thing to see how different fingers can point at the same moon from completely unique perspectives. The human spirit is so intricate.
Humbling and facilitating is a great way of looking at it. It’s quite amazing how different we are and the different experiences we can have of similar events.
I’m coming to see how poetry helps us appreciate our own perspective from a clearer place without the temptation of false surety or dull complacency. Poetry keeps asking us to stay open to actual lived experience. A wider lens that helps us love ourselves and others better.
Your process notes are as compelling as the completed poem.
Thanks Kim!
100% agree :)
I love these comments and thoughts on process, Brian. Fascinating.
Amazing photos, too.
"I was left with a mess that I loved. There were individual lines that I knew were right, the themes were compelling, and while I could not make sense of it all in my mind, I liked something about the progression. It was a felt knowing." This is so good. Even more so that some of the theme was there but you weren't fully aware until reading the comments after posting the poem.
Seeing poetry through others eyes is one of the gifts I’ve found with sharing writing on Substack. And I think that is part of when a poem feels right...there’s multiple layers and often even being the author I haven’t seen them all yet!
If there's anything I wish to try to convey in my own writing, it is that sense of layers, too.
I have 2 of your newsletters to catch up on. I’m behind, but looking forward to catching up!
There is no hurry, my friend. They won't go anywhere :)
It’s the most humbling and fascinating thing to see how different fingers can point at the same moon from completely unique perspectives. The human spirit is so intricate.
Humbling and facilitating is a great way of looking at it. It’s quite amazing how different we are and the different experiences we can have of similar events.
I’m coming to see how poetry helps us appreciate our own perspective from a clearer place without the temptation of false surety or dull complacency. Poetry keeps asking us to stay open to actual lived experience. A wider lens that helps us love ourselves and others better.
I love the background of how this poem came into focus as much as I love the poem. So thoughtful, contemplative, and thought provoking.
Thanks Troy!
I love how you unpack your process. It's enlightening and inspiring!
Thanks Simon. Substack is a great place for inspiration!