Welcome to the 190th Virtual Poetry Circle!
Remember, this is just for fun and is not meant to be stressful.
Keep in mind what Molly Peacock’s books suggested. Look at a line, a stanza, sentences, and images; describe what you like or don’t like; and offer an opinion. If you missed my review of her book, check it out here.
Also, sign up for the 2013 Dive Into Poetry Challenge because its simple; you only need to read 1 book of poetry. Please visit the stops on the 2012 National Poetry Month Blog Tour.
Today’s poem is from Mary Oliver’s A Thousand Mornings (page 47):
Was it Necessary to Do It? I tell you that ant is very alive! Look at how he fusses at being stepped on.
What do you think?
I think the title alone says so much and really gets you thinking. Stepping on an ant might seem so insignificant, but really, is it necessary? I agree with your comments about how pain and suffering has so much to do with being alive.
I was one of those kids with the evil streak toward ants, but only ants. Rather than stepping on them, though, I wanted to see if I could light them on fire with a magnifying glass. Now, I’m a different person and feel bad for the poor creature.
But like Jeanne, in terms of the poem, I do like that the second line throws the other line into a different light — making it a lie, but also highlighting what it means to be alive — like without pain and suffering, how do we know it is alive or that we are for that matter.
It was such a powerful two-line poem for me, I just had to include it this week.
I actually got a bit angry and sad. I’m one of those people that won’t harm anything if I can help it … even an ant.
I like the way the second line makes the first line a lie.
gaaah! I’m with Ali! Now I feel guilty and like a murderer!
Aw, kinda sad. I always feel bad when ants get squished. I’m such a softie.