The Number That Matters Most

We are not defined by numbers, but we are too good at quantifying things, including ourselves.

Sixty-eight and fifty-four 

Below average I was told 

Clients come and clients go 

Never my rankings will they know 

 

Ninety-six and one-four-four 

"On the high side," my doc moans 

Convoluted my blood flow 

Too much pressure takes a toll 

 

Forty-two by twenty-four 

How big can my TV go? 

Morbid motion loud and bold 

What a maestro I can boast! 

 

All those numbers long ago 

Forgott’n, high or low 

On my deathbed thru a tunnel 

My heart’s last faint ripple: 

Will I plunge to an infinite cold, 

Or start from square one...so I hope?

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Louisa, so pleased to follow my friend Jacob here. He led the way. Really enjoyed your approach to the subject matter. Some people think it's all about numbers. How much money you've got, how many friends you have. I can remember my disappointment and dread when it came to exam times at school and our results were read out in order of merit. It took a long time to realise that I am not defined by numbers. The only numbers that really bother me are the ones related to health. I tend to listen to my GP, when he talks numbers, but as far as the others are concerned, , they are of no consequence. Really enjoying the contribution you make to this site. We are richer for it.

Chris

[Louisa Chan]

Thank you for your sharing, and your very kind review Chris!
L

[jacob erin-cilberto]

This site scares me sometimes...A poem this good with 78 views but only 1 review? That is pitiful.
How big can my tv go? Some numbers are for health, some are for riches...but those numbers won't answer that question....which way will go...rising or plunging in the end...and we can't take it with us.
I won't release my scores, either....never ever.
I appreciate your alerting me to this piece of yours...I quite like it.
very Clever write.
j.

[Louisa Chan]

Thank you so much Jacob!
Your review reveals your deep insights into the matter that I set out to write about : )
L

[Louisa Chan]

The first stanza is about evaluation by other people, like in the workplace. But our value is not defined by numbers : )

[William Michael Reeves]

This is interesting and unique. I liked your number theme and you hid and revealed your subject just enough to make me scratch my head and understand. I'm thinking you have a background in working with people who have intellectual disabilities?

Bill