Studying With an Agenda

When people get the idea that you are exciting and the answer to their problems and happiness.

To most guys I hardly exist.
To others I am a diamond in the rough.
Some think me a puzzle with rare pieces.
A few think me to be a piece of art,
in need of careful study
to be fully appreciated;
Stripped layer by layer,
to understand the piece in its entirety.
One thinks me a Russian Doll
with yet unrevealed surprises.
Yet the only thing interesting about me
Is an assumption, an idea, a chase of what could be.
When the search is over, you will find
that what you searched for does not exist.
I am merely the object of your study
onto which you project.

Mai L. Nissen, February 2012

Author's Note

Art by Mahmoud Farshchian

Criticism and suggestions are well received!
It is a bit clumsily put together...

Reviews

[James O'Rourke]

An interesting poem Mai.

I can say that I half agree with the idea. I do understand what it's like to be seen as an object that needs to be peeled or pieced together. It can be frustrating when someone view us in only this manner. However, I find that to be the process with relationships. The more time spent with someone, the more you know (or piece together or peel a layer.)

Perhaps I'm just being WAAAAAY too subjective about the poem. Overall, I do enjoy it. It brings up universal feelings and offers up the chance to give one's perspective. Can't wait to read more!

[Mai L Nissen]

I understand what you are saying. This is more aimed at people, that after seeing you a few times, have decided that you somehow are the answer to all their problems or put you on a pedestal - then feel cheated, when you finally convince them that they are wrong. Some never realize that they are wrong, and keep loving what they think is there. I prefer being loved for what I am, not what someone needs me to be. That was my motivation for writing this poem - however, despite motivation something, that I might not have been aware of, may have seeped out through the lines... Perhaps some people would find it flattering and see it as someone seeing the best in them etc... Maybe I am just an old, sulky person :D

So it is interesting to hear what other people think.

[Sameer]

Brilliant, every human being is actually hiding to be revealed. How true ... Thanks Mai for putting it together

[Mai L Nissen]

Thank you for taking the time to read it, Sameer.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

maybe you think clumsily as far as organization, i don't.
i think the way this is put together is how many would act in a relationship...the projection of what they want to see, and trying to clumsily mold the other person into that...instead of accepting the person as he or she was in the first place because that is what attracted us to that person.
when we objectify...that is a dangerous verb...
when we subjectify...we take as is, and love.

[Mai L Nissen]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Jacob. I appreciate it :)

[Sameer]

Jacob great thoughts, true