Vanishing Point

Vanishing Point

So what do we think?
When we bother at all.
Of staying in straight lines?
Following the uniform in front?
Followed uniformly behind?
Up marble steps hollowed down by those before,
Past sleeping lions heroically carved to guard…
What? From whom?
Taken in perspective, all lines converge.
Until the mind - that willing fool -
Begins its urging. First quietly, in seditious whisper:
“Yes, this is real, real. Simply reach out and touch to feel.”
So convinced, we break away, slip beneath the velvet rope,
Past guards lost in stuporus dreams of cigarettes and coffee.
We know! Truly know what depth is there.
That hands may feel what eyes may see,
So we reach, reach,
Reach until suddenly,  surprised fingers are stopped.
Stopped short by the grain of brush strokes,
Stopped by the taunt bounce of canvas.
Then, oh then, there is the slow walk back
Back into place
Then there is the mourning,
Mourning that unnamed thing, lost.
Lost forever by the act of discovery.

 

Author's Note

All comments and criticism welcome

Reviews

[Laz K.]

I've read this a few tines trying to take it all in.

First, there's the realization of conformity that breeds discontent.
Then, comes the desire to explore.
The poem suggests that we re fooling ourselves.
Disappointment follows, and disillusionment.
Maybe, it all just seemed so enticing and wonderful in our head?

I appreciate poems that speak of some deep realization - and this one certainly does that.
The imagery used throughout is very vivid and masterful as well.

[Delmar Cooper]

Thanks for reading and for your comments. I had the notion it was a loss of innocence poem pretty much.

[barleygirl]

Since I read tons of true outdoor adventure books, especially about "firsts" -- your poem harkens to the ever-shrinking untouched wilderness. Your last 2 lines are what stomp the hell out of me (((HUGS)))

[Delmar Cooper]

Thank you for your words. They are a comfort.

[Robert Trakofler]

I have never been very good at maintaining a perspective on much of anything for long:/ on one hand it is good to be open to new things on the other it's hard to stand on constantly flowing ground. This is very clever conduction Mr cooper

[Delmar Cooper]

I am glad you read this and I appreciate your comments. Thanks .

[Travis Gibson (poetic h..]

This felt like my process of separating myself from my "religious" beliefs, that were all handed down by my parents of course. Although, I didn't find myself mourning, only rejoicing. This is so very layered... I've read it 3x, and will do so a fourth time. Great write!

[Delmar Cooper]

Thanks for reading and letting me know your thoughts . It is encouraging you found it worth rereading.

[willbradley]

I felt the same interpretation as Laz. It was compelling. It felt like a balk at the institution primarily to me, and the prescribed way in which we are permitted to live our lives, being able to stray and examine our environment only insomuch as we are permitted. I get it right?

Anyway, Nicely written. At times it felt like you stepped outside the style you started with, like you were reaching for something and didn't quite hit it, maybe a word or phrase. Otherwise, I really enjoyed it.

[Delmar Cooper]

Thanks for the comment. Yeah it got loose there . an escapee of a sort.

[willbradley]

Sure! It's a good piece!

[wordman]

maybe we are lost sheep following along

[Delmar Cooper]

Could be. And the Judas goat?

[wordman]

that would be you,,right

[wordman]

we used to have a man that came through here every year,he drove a wagon and he had a dozen sheep or more,he slept with them,smelled like them ,we named him the goat man

[Dave Brown]

I enjoyed the message/language/imagery 'lost in stuporus dreams', etc. all very visual.
There are so many of us it is almost impossible to find a unique pathway, so yes, back to the rigid canvas surface and do what we can.
Much deeper thinking than I would attempt.

[Delmar Cooper]

Thanks for reading and for your comment. Lots of ways to see things and lots of people to see.

[NotUsinganymore]

Interesting poem, it reminded me losing things and mourning for it when it is gone.

[Delmar Cooper]

Thank you for reading the poem and for taking time to let me know.

[NotUsinganymore]

You are welcome. Please check my newest poem!

[Coyote Poetry]

Outstanding poetry shared Delmar.
“Yes, this is real, real. Simply reach out and touch to feel.”
So convinced, we break away, slip beneath the velvet rope,
Past guards lost in stuporus dreams of cigarettes and coffee.
We know! Truly know what depth is there.
That hands may feel what eyes may see,
So we reach, reach,"
The above lines. So good. I agree. We must touch and feel to ensure. It is real. Thank you for sharing your amazing words and your thoughts.
Coyote

[Delmar Cooper]

Thanks for reading and for your gracious comment.

[Coyote Poetry]

You are welcome my friend.

[Chris Shaw]

When I read this story I sort of reflected on myself afterwards. It's those bloomin straight lines. Disciplined childhood making me stick to the straight and narrow. Almost a fear of putting a foot over. You know nothing ventured, nothing gained. That's how we learn, by putting a toe into the water every now and again. Gaining wisdom, weighing the situation up and then getting back on track. Enjoyable read Delmar.

Chris

[Delmar Cooper]

So glad it pleased you. Means a lot to be told that you did.

[Chris Shaw]

It was a pleasure Delmar. Have a lovely day.