The Tug
lake above, wind below —> mountain above, wind below
for Natalie on our anniversary Our strength could be our undoing if we’re not careful, my love. The doves outside are cooing, and we know how to take off the glove of strong thought and let ourselves feel it — the tug — and then reel it.
I was drawn to this little six-line poem because I have always loved love poetry. I think it is something that’s sadly neglected in this high-tech, intellect-driven era in which people seem to be in danger of losing their humanity. And interestingly, Jonathan seems to be aware of this also, and begins his love poem with a warning both to himself and his beloved that their “strength” could be their undoing if they are not mindful about the manner in which they relate to each other going forward in what appears to be a very strong and communicative relationship.
“Strength” isn’t being criticized here, it is simply being recognized as something that can become excessive, even though it is essential in order to survive in this world as it is, and in relationships with others in it. It means that like crows, doves, or other creatures … we adapt realistically to our environment. But our environment isn’t always harsh and there is a right time “to take off the glove of strong thought” and feel the tug (or dove) of our own humanity.
So “The Tug,” is about the pull between of attraction two people. But it is also about the inward tug from intellect toward feeling, from control toward receptivity, from strength toward tenderness, and getting that balance right when needed
What a marvellous, realistic love poem this is, and one that bodes well for the future of this relationship! All that remains to be said, is: “Congratulations Jonathan & Natalie on your anniversary. May your love endure for as long as forever is!”
💙