Self-Portrait

A cross-sectional analysis of who I think I am.

I find joy in the strangest things

Like the elegant loop of a well-written cursive letter

The steady flow of ink from a new pen

The way my hair twists itself into bouncy curls when I let it air-dry

The snap of a fresh green bean between my fingers

And the feeling of almost falling, but remaining firmly upright

 

I feel sad about the most inane things

Like a trampled blade of grass

The dead squirrel on the side of the road

The vastness of the ocean, and how I'll never see all of it

An empty pair of shoes

And riding in taxis by myself

 

I find comfort in the simplest things

Like tomato soup and grilled cheese

A Supernatural marathon

Wrapping myself in heavy blankets

The thought of going back to England

And the love and kindness of strangers

Reviews

[Wolfwind]

This is a marvelous work of self introspection and poetry. The stanzas all sing a different tune. The first stanza takes us on a journey of things that blossom and grow. The second slides us through the world that is in some form incomplete. The last and final stanza brings us into warmth as it speaks of things that embrace us and feel safe.

Beautiful imagery! Thanks for sharing!
Aaron - Wolfwind

[Hilary Adams]

Thank you, Aaron! I wanted the poem to move through different experiences of emotion while retaining a constant forward momentum. What you describe in your review was precisely what I was going for!

[J_Star]

I really like this. Found myself nodding in agreement at many of the lines, particularly the one about the green beans :)

[SuperChick62]

Very interesting subject. It could almost be used for an online profile... I like some of your descriptions. It has simple things that one can understand why you feel that way about them. I think my favorite line is the one about the ocean. It is a very philosophical line.

Once again I think it's a bit wordy. Also, perhaps add a couple more verses and maybe say more about these things you feel so strongly about. Perhaps add a vague memory to them to add why you feel that way. The empty taxis for instance, perhaps talk about the loneliness of them. Maybe even delve a little into want and longing.

Very nice.

[K. Louis]

Good to find joy and comfort in the small things...I've never thought about the ocean in that way, but now it makes me really sad. lol

[Hilary Adams]

It applies to the rest of the world too, that sort of sadness I feel knowing I can't possibly go everywhere and do everything. But I can try, huh? Thanks for the review!

[K. Louis]

You certainly can! You're welcome!

[.]

:: i think this poem is as beautiful as "the elegant loop of a well-written cursive letter"... i loved all the images... i wasn't sure if the closing would be as wonderful as the rest of the piece but it is... :)

[Hilary Adams]

Thank you, Serah! I was actually inspired to write this poem after seeing a message written on a Post-It note!