Reverse Existentialism

Do you know what waits on the other side of all of that panic?

Nothing.

 

There is no enlightenment there, 

no feeling, 

no truth. 

It is uncaring. It is inanimate. 

You are animate. 

So panic. 

You don’t want to die. Not really. Not yet. 

Maybe one day you’ll be ready. 

You will have no expectations, so it won’t disappoint. 

The lukewarm water will take you back. 

And you’ll leave all the answers you never found

Where you never looked

Where you always were. 

But go there too early and you’ll learn nothing. 

It doesn’t have the answers you seek. 

It doesn’t have anything.

It is inanimate.

You are animate.

Reviews

[Roycroft]

If you don't mind me asking, why is this called reverse existentialism? It's seems to be very much in the existentialist vein, meaning that it affirms the old existentialist tenant of existence preceding essence. In other words, we come into existence without any larger meaning to guide us, so consequently we have to find our own meaning in life. Since this poem seems to be focusing on that, I'm just wondering why you have "reverse" in your title.

[Olivia]

I called it reverse existentialism to challenge people's conception of existentialism. Existentialism is about finding purpose in the moment, finding "essence," but that is the second step to an otherwise destructive process. First, you have to understand that there is no ordained or inherent path, meaning, or purpose, and only then you can find/construct/interpret your own. Unfortunately the loss of some imposed purpose is often so scary that death is seen as the logical alternative, and I think many people don't get past this step with the philosophy. I wanted people to return to the life aspect of existentialism, rather than focus on its nihilist subset. I am not particularly attached to the title, perhaps a better one would be "Second Step Existentialism," "Return of the Existentialist," or just "Existentialism" as you imply.

[Cailean]

Strangely, I find this very life-affirming. I am not sure that everyone would agree. I think some people would consider this depressing. I feel that this piece acknowledges problems, pain, trauma, fear - but then continues walking onwards.

This is strength. This is metal tried in the fire. Evolution through adversity.

To understand and see light, one must acknowledge the darkness. And vice versa, of course. it is folly to assume that it does not exist. Realize its existence, so you can face it and overcome it. In that, this poem somehow reminds me of the Litany Against Fear. Fear is indeed the mind-killer, and the logical and rational dissection of the subject matter in this piece shows that Mind is the fear-killer as well :)

No constructive criticism to offer, I'm afraid - I think this piece sits powerfully as it is.