Thursday, April 1, 2010

The Poem Project, Day 1

OK, how to kick off this thing, this experiment, this - my own little Poetry Slam. I'll reach into the vault, and pull out something from a few years ago! Before we begin, though, I'd like to simply say a brief thanks. Thanks to you, whomever you are, for taking this journey with me. By all means, if something I write seems appropriate for you to share with others, please feel free to do so. I'm not suggesting I'm that great, but every once in a while I happen upon something good. Above all, though, I hope you enjoy this ride - I'm looking forward to it.

Something in Common

One sat, book upon his lap, head bowed,
silently letting his mind get lost in
the whiteness of the pages.
Sat another, eyes awake, simply looking
at the passing of people the other couldn't see.
No words were said, no great thoughts uttered.
And yet, in the peaceful quiet, both realized
they shared a common bond.
One stood and walked away - the other left, too.
Opposite paths they strode, but each was changed,
for sometimes, when words are silent, the heart is
able to speak and yet be heard.


I wrote this back in 2000 - I think I was walking outside and saw a couple of people on a bench...or something like that. I know I kind of like this one. No, it's not anything grand or awe-inspiring. It does not take my breath away. But whenever I read it, I am reminded that life can sometimes be simple and quiet, and that those are the moments that sometimes mean the most.

Thoughts are appreciated, comments encouraged, responses are welcome.

Thanks for reading!

The Fat Kid

1 comment:

Adam said...

I actually quite like the feeling of this. Like you say, simple and unpretentious, yet evoking a familiar, yearned-for "otherness." The ending also evokes a similarity with Frost's two paths diverging.

I do have to admit, I was hoping to see you compose a fresh new poem every single day. But then again, I know how real life can be, so I'll let you off the hook. This time.