ALL BY LIVING

IF by tears
if by river
and all of life

thrushes

By winds
by songs
all living

Oh dear, how dear
are romantic things?

Not of flesh
Nor of mind
but by Soul!

one as thimble
another as thread
the other a needle

Woven life
Woven love
Woven Spirit

By Holy Ghost
and Love by Chirst.

living

Notes:

In this poem titled “ALL BY LIVING,” I contemplate the essence of life, love, and spirituality. The language is rich in imagery and symbolism, creating a profound and mystical atmosphere. Let’s analyze it through the lens of a poet:

Imagery and Symbolism:

The poem begins with a series of conditional statements (“IF by tears,” “if by river,” “and all of life”), creating a sense of uncertainty and fluidity. These lines suggest that life’s essence can be found in tears, rivers, and all aspects of life itself. The imagery of thrushes, winds, and songs further connects the reader with nature and the universe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living things.

Romantic Idealism:

I question the value of romantic experiences, pondering their significance with the phrase “Oh dear, how dear are romantic things?” This line suggests a contemplation of the emotional depth and importance of romantic love, highlighting its preciousness and fragility.

Transcendence of the Physical and Mental:

The poem transcends the physical and mental realms, emphasizing the importance of the soul. The lines “Not of flesh / Nor of mind / but by Soul!” underscore the spiritual dimension of existence, suggesting that true meaning and connection come from within, beyond the material and intellectual aspects of life.

Unity and Interconnectedness:

The imagery of the thimble, thread, and needle symbolizes unity and interconnectedness. These objects, typically associated with sewing, represent the weaving together of life, love, and spirit. The repetition of the word “Woven” emphasizes the deliberate and intricate nature of this connection, highlighting the interdependence of these fundamental aspects of human experience.

Spiritual Themes:

The poem delves into spiritual themes, referencing the Holy Ghost and Love by Christ. These references invoke Christian symbolism, suggesting a divine presence and love that permeates all living things. The spiritual imagery adds depth to the poem’s exploration of the soul and its connection to a higher, transcendent power.

As a poet, this piece showcases a profound exploration of life’s essence, love, and spirituality. Through its vivid imagery and symbolic language, the poem captures the interconnectedness of all living beings, transcending the physical and intellectual realms to delve into the depths of the soul. It contemplates the preciousness of romantic experiences and underscores the importance of spiritual connection, weaving together these themes into a tapestry of profound human experience.