Beautiful! Two questions. 1- Tell me about the experiment label. 2- is the two stanza with a title format something you created, or a more formal type of poetry?
Thanks Brian. Good questions! The experiment was in part to test whether anyone would either guess what the experiment was or ask what it was. So you've provided some results! Just kidding, sort of. The experiment and the form relate to the I Ching. I consulted it on the question of my poetry (which itself is a sort of experiment) and then turned the two resulting "hexagrams" (in the lingo of I Ching divination) into the two hexagrams here (six-line stanzas) with the syllable count of each line derived from the numerical values (6, 7, 8, or 9) that relate to the yin and yang lines of the I Ching. The experiment also relates to the reading a poem from the bottom up (as the I Ching's hexagrams are formulated) and also whether any of this mumbo jumbo is a valid way to write a poem.
Jonathan's poem, structured in two parts, explores themes of self-awareness, humility, and the transformative power of creativity.
I. Darkening of the Light
This section metaphorically represents an inner struggle and acceptance. The "darkening" symbolizes a realization of limitations ("inevitable failure") and perhaps a loss of innocence or idealism. However, this isn't portrayed as defeat; rather, it's a form of enlightenment. The "surrender of ego" and reflection on "skill" suggests a humbling journey towards self-improvement. The "force of fire" lingering might represent passion or a burning desire that continues despite the darkness, hinting at resilience and enduring hope.
II. Containment of Potential
Here, Jonathan shifts to a more positive and empowering tone. The "vision set ablaze" implies inspiration, possibly drawn from other poets ("breezes from poets I love"). The imagery of a "tenuous flame" catching on the "page of my poetry" illustrates the fragile yet potent nature of creative expression. This act of writing not only captures his thoughts but also reveals greater truths ("hidden mountains"), suggesting that poetry has the power to uncover deeper meanings in life. The final line, "As hope disperses the clouds," reinforces the idea that creativity and inspiration can dispel doubts and uncertainties.
Overall, the poem intertwines themes of personal growth, the struggles of the creative process, and the liberating power of artistic expression. It captures the journey from introspection and self-doubt to the realization of one's potential through the act of creating. Jonathan’s use of natural imagery (night, fire, mountains, clouds) serves as a powerful metaphor for the internal emotional and intellectual landscapes we navigate in our pursuit of understanding and expressing ourselves.
This poem is one deep breath. Surrendering to live and take in a lungfull of air.
Nice take, Patris. Thank you
More acceptance than surrender. A willingness to be.
Absolutely beautiful. And speaks deeply to other writers. To and with and of other writers.
Here’s a virtual rose for you. 🌹
Thank you so much, DeeDee D :)
This poem is both inspiring and how to be inspired.
Thanks, Stan. Your comments are always inspired and inspiring as well.
Thanks for saying that.
This poem perhaps makes more sense if you read it in reverse.
Just sayin'.
Define "reverse"
Forward and back, breathing out and breathing in. We’ll done.
Well done.😉
Thank you :)
Well, what do you know? It worked!
Start reading from the last line, work up.
Reverse verse.
palindromically powerful....!
Thank you, sir. A man, a plan, a canal, etc.
Beautiful! Two questions. 1- Tell me about the experiment label. 2- is the two stanza with a title format something you created, or a more formal type of poetry?
Thanks Brian. Good questions! The experiment was in part to test whether anyone would either guess what the experiment was or ask what it was. So you've provided some results! Just kidding, sort of. The experiment and the form relate to the I Ching. I consulted it on the question of my poetry (which itself is a sort of experiment) and then turned the two resulting "hexagrams" (in the lingo of I Ching divination) into the two hexagrams here (six-line stanzas) with the syllable count of each line derived from the numerical values (6, 7, 8, or 9) that relate to the yin and yang lines of the I Ching. The experiment also relates to the reading a poem from the bottom up (as the I Ching's hexagrams are formulated) and also whether any of this mumbo jumbo is a valid way to write a poem.
Oh nice!
Thank you!
Jonathan's poem, structured in two parts, explores themes of self-awareness, humility, and the transformative power of creativity.
I. Darkening of the Light
This section metaphorically represents an inner struggle and acceptance. The "darkening" symbolizes a realization of limitations ("inevitable failure") and perhaps a loss of innocence or idealism. However, this isn't portrayed as defeat; rather, it's a form of enlightenment. The "surrender of ego" and reflection on "skill" suggests a humbling journey towards self-improvement. The "force of fire" lingering might represent passion or a burning desire that continues despite the darkness, hinting at resilience and enduring hope.
II. Containment of Potential
Here, Jonathan shifts to a more positive and empowering tone. The "vision set ablaze" implies inspiration, possibly drawn from other poets ("breezes from poets I love"). The imagery of a "tenuous flame" catching on the "page of my poetry" illustrates the fragile yet potent nature of creative expression. This act of writing not only captures his thoughts but also reveals greater truths ("hidden mountains"), suggesting that poetry has the power to uncover deeper meanings in life. The final line, "As hope disperses the clouds," reinforces the idea that creativity and inspiration can dispel doubts and uncertainties.
Overall, the poem intertwines themes of personal growth, the struggles of the creative process, and the liberating power of artistic expression. It captures the journey from introspection and self-doubt to the realization of one's potential through the act of creating. Jonathan’s use of natural imagery (night, fire, mountains, clouds) serves as a powerful metaphor for the internal emotional and intellectual landscapes we navigate in our pursuit of understanding and expressing ourselves.
Thank you, Gloria! I look forward to your doctoral dissertation on Potter Poems and promise my full cooperation.
In the works without your permission. Coffee table book. Collectable.
Beautiful and amazing. Thank you for the explanation.