Naming the Influence : In Retrospect
.
Things designed to grow
often get away from us
.
One look at my yard
or my children
would evidence why
this might be of concern
to me
.
disease and debt,
dust and doubt,
all maintain this quality;
.
It’s not a bad thing really –
imagination, desire,
patience and hope
are also items that accrue
over time and with attention
.
It’s the sort of thing one,
well, simply notices:
that desire and decay
operate on similar terms
.
both of which catch us unaware.
.
“They feed they lion”
it’s been said
and I know
what it means
(at least in part)
.
what we emphasize
while naming our influence
is suspect at least –
.
“side-swiped” we declaim,
“should have known”
or “could have seen coming”
of this, that and other
ever going, growing,
right along, alongside,
.
perhaps unseen,
perhaps simply ignored
(and that prior to perception)
.
all our –isms, habits, beliefs
in their cumulative gentle violence
.
what our mouths spray
our lives belie
.
in retrospect.
Polysemic Stupor 
This is awe-inspiring. These are… Heart-rendingly wise.
Perfectly, and beautifully expressed, Nathan.
The last words especially; ‘In retrospect’. Its nice to see some words from you.
*It’s* nice…
poignant, and such wise words, Nathan.
Thank you Emily. It’s been a crazy summer.
Thank you Karen. The summer has been zany – with little time for reflection or composition (for here). I miss seeing your work and am eager to catch up. I would still love to collaborate. School begins soon and hopefully a semblance of routine 🙂
Thank you Summer. Thank you.
In retrospect. Insightful.