I am not a man of constant sorrow.
I am not one who sees the forest. I see trees.
I am not much of one to see tomorrow.
Today is good enough for one who sees.
I am not a poet full of good intentions.
I am not a fan of words used as a lure.
I am not a writer craving voice in world dissensions.
Words aren’t always helpful, don’t always cure.
I am not where you will find no contradictions.
I am not where you will hear all answers spoke.
I am not immune to maledictions.
It’s possible to be both whole and broke.
I live in dreams, not always in real life,
in fantasies more real to me than you.
I am not a man whose sorrow’s like a knife,
that cuts, it’s true, still sorrows sometimes do.
True poetry is not always ‘I am’. That’s just a boast.
It’s often in ‘I’m not’, where it’s found most.
I enjoyed this immensely
Title drew me.
Your opening line was a juicy morsel. And
Your last line says it all.
Thank you. It’s one of the most honestly ‘me’ things I posted that night. I’m glad it spoke to someone.
Wow! I also thought your opening is very strong and your final couplet is memorable. This one will stay with me.
If it stays with you, that’s the best I could hope for. Thank you.
So strong and memorable. Particularly “Words aren’t always helpful, don’t always cure.”
Thank you. If it’s memorable, then I did it right. Much appreciated.
My favorite line: It’s possible to be both whole and broke.
But the whole thing is wonderful! So inspiring!
Thank you. Might be my favorite line as well. That may be the first time one of my marathon poems has been called inspiring. I hope I can learn my own lesson.
Really enjoyed this poem and you pulled with your first line: I ‘m not a man of constant sorrow. The
honesty of this piece is so refreshing!