Reading notes: I feel a little background is necessary here. This poem's theme is compartmentalization, especially as it pertains to the "quest for Truth." It discusses how, in our fear of the grotesque, disturbing, and difficult aspects of reality, we destroy our ability to dwell in perfection and wholeness. It also has to do with hiding away from and condemning "other people" for barbaric acts and qualities instead of taking personal responsibility for all aspects of one's existence. Usually, I prefer to not provide reading notes, but as this piece is a bit darker (and as the irrational fear of the dark is very prevalent in western society) I thought it compassionate to provide some context. In the future I may or may not do this on similar pieces. Please weigh in with a comment below and let me know!
Stares of the others
Were felt until they
Covered my tongue,
.
Smothered by fur,
Halfhearted humanoids
Ravenous with desire.
.
Crust of knowledge
Was my hideout from
Barbaric sensations.
.
Through pursuit of peace
I ran the race of horror;
I sought escape in bright shadow
& was handicapped by error.
.
The vile state of affairs
I could not face was
A glorious rose.
.
The bloodshed I condemned
Resounded chimes &
Starry hymns.
.
In the darkest of the dark,
In the hell I would not hark,
In the suffering that I fled,
I killed all wholeness in my head.
@d-pend