'You’re trying to remember something/too important to forget...'
This poem could also be called 'Advice for Writers' or 'On Cultivating Solitude for Success.' There are many brilliant truths here eloquently and originally delivered, making it both laugh-out-loud funny accurate and deadly serious. Mission for the week: 'Walk around feeling like a leaf'. Yes.
The Art of Disappearing - Naomi Shibab Nye
When they say Don’t I know you?
say no.
When they invite you to the party
remember what parties are like
before answering.
Someone telling you in a loud voice
they once wrote a poem.
Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.
Then reply.
If they say we should get together.
say why?
It’s not that you don’t love them any more.
You’re trying to remember something
too important to forget.
Trees. The monastery bell at twilight.
Tell them you have a new project.
It will never be finished.
When someone recognizes you in a grocery store
nod briefly and become a cabbage.
When someone you haven’t seen in ten years
appears at the door,
don’t start singing him all your new songs.
You will never catch up.
Walk around feeling like a leaf.
Know you could tumble any second.
Then decide what to do with your time.
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