It wouldn’t work.
Real marriage.
“Compromise,” they say,
bitterly hostile,
abandoning wife and child.
Most of us need existential,
translucent barriers.
Grounded people,
experienced openness as freedom-
By a lover
or a neighbor
or a man with eyes;
powerful
oppressive,
longing.
Self preservation,
loved and feared-
solitude and escape-
the necessary condition for his poetry.
The Monk and The Lover,
deep within,
powerful and conflicting,
never able to merge.
"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return." - Eden Ahbez
Exploring "The Monk and The Lover"
Dear Poets,
I'm excited to introduce you to "The Monk and The Lover," a compelling found poem that delves into the complexities of human relationships, compromise, longing, and the eternal struggle for balance. Join me in this newsletter as we unravel the themes woven into this thought-provoking piece.
"The Monk and The Lover" - A Deeper Insight:
This poem dives headfirst into the realm of relationships, offering an unfiltered portrayal of the struggles we all face. The title alone hints at a profound duality—the contrasting worlds of the monk and the lover. Within these lines, we journey through the intricacies of what it means to navigate love, compromise, and personal freedom.
Marriage and Compromise:
The poem opens with a stark declaration: "It wouldn’t work." These words set the stage for an exploration of the reality of marriage. The term "Real marriage" invites us to consider the depth and authenticity required for a true partnership. As we progress, the word "Compromise" emerges, underlining the challenging nature of compromise in relationships. The bitterness and hostility portrayed here reflect the painful moments when compromise becomes a bitter pill to swallow, sometimes leading to heartbreaking decisions.
Existential Barriers and Freedom:
A thought-provoking shift occurs as we encounter "Most of us need existential, translucent barriers." This phrase urges us to reflect on the need for boundaries in our lives—barriers that define our existence and give shape to our experiences. Yet, the poem also celebrates the liberating sensation of "experienced openness as freedom." It's a reminder that, at times, openness can be the ultimate expression of freedom, allowing us to transcend the barriers we've created.
The Lure of Longing and Power:
Within the verses, we sense the allure of longing and power. Whether through a lover, a neighbor, or simply a gaze, the poem highlights the irresistible pull of desire and dominance. It acknowledges the complexities of these emotions and their capacity to both empower and oppress.
The Monk and The Lover Within:
The heart of the poem lies in the contrast between "The Monk and The Lover," two powerful yet conflicting aspects of the human experience. These entities reside deep within each of us, often struggling to find common ground. The poem recognizes that they may never truly merge, acknowledging the eternal tension that exists.
In Conclusion:
Dear readers, "The Monk and The Lover" is a tapestry of human experiences—of love and compromise, of longing and power, and of the constant battle between our inner selves. It is an invitation to explore the multifaceted nature of relationships and the delicate dance we all partake in as we navigate the complexities of life.
I invite you to reflect upon these verses and join us for our upcoming podcast episode, where we will dive even deeper into "The Monk and The Lover." Together, let's continue exploring the intricate web of emotions that poetry so beautifully unravels.
Warmest regards,
Elijah A. Bland
Source Material: Rilke, Rainer Maria. “Letters To A Young Poet.” Translated by Stephen Mitchell, The Modern Library, 1984, pp. xii-xiii