Two people with whom I've been corresponding about writing intersect here at this poem. "V" introduced me to the poet David Whyte. I looked him up on the Internet and found this poem, which I sent to "B," who is working on his first novel.
Photo: The Ascent of Muhammad to Heaven on his steed Buraq, guided by Gabriel and escorted by angels.
Self-Portrait
From
Fire in the Earth
by David Whyte
Copyright © 1992 by David Whyte
It doesn't interest me if there is one God or many gods.
I want to know if you belong or feel abandoned.
If you know despair or can see it in others.
I want to know if you are prepared to live in the world with its harsh need to change you. If you can look back with firm eyes saying this is where I stand.
I want to know if you know how to melt into that fierce heat of living falling toward the center of your longing.
I want to know if you are willing to live, day by day, with the consequence of love and the bitter unwanted passion of sure defeat.
I have been told, in that fierce embrace, even the gods speak of God.
From
Fire in the Earth
by David Whyte
Copyright © 1992 by David Whyte
2 comments:
David Whyte is an earthy British poet who draws much of his inspiration from the past, from myth and from ancient traditions. He has a magnificent resonant delivery when he recites his poems, and can move the listener even more than these wonderful lines suggest. (He can be heard on several audiotapes.) He now lives in the Pacific Northwest and has published several collections. Whyte is unabashedly emotional and spiritual, and digs deep in his work, using lyrical images from the conscious and the unconscious. This piece may be compared with "Invitation to the Dance" by Oriah Mountain Dreamer, another very moving poem with a similar them. Whyte, though, tunnels down into the very depths of his soul, and dares the reader to follow. I am so glad to have introduced you to him, Theresa, and recommend him to anyone who cares to read more.
Blessings, VS
Thanks, Theresa.
V
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