And Then, Not Poem by Christine Austin Cole
And Then, Not
'Everything that happens where we live happens in us. Everything that ceases in what we see ceases in us. Everything that has been, if we saw it when it was, was taken from us when it went away. The office boy left today.'
~Fernando Pessoa
It’s the office boy -
And, God… the baby.
They existed, undeniably so,
In the days that came and went
[and he loved them]
Until they, themselves,
Were gone.
Somehow in their going…
They became more-real
And the sudden, pained awareness
Of their being, then, not-there
Was impossible to deny
And undeniably unbearable
(because he loved them) .
It’s the office boy –
And God, the baby,
And you
And me
And… that.
(The 'office boy' quote above was extracted from Fernando Pessoa's The Book of Disquiet, entry 279 and I first discovered the 'baby' in 'Yes, I Know It's All Quite Natural', a piece attributed to Alvaro De Campos in the book Fernando Pessoa & Co. These two books are among those that NEVER get put away.)
Refreshingly unique subject and approach rehan
A very unique approach. One worth noting. Perhaps, one which may be used again in replication of other things. Very interesting indeed. GW62
Good write...a subject not covered by many...refreshing! ! a lot different to many a poem I've had the privilege of reading.. all the very best J.L
an artful write on a theme that impressed you, Christine...stylish poem presentation...i liked 10
the poignant spirituality that defines this poem caused me to return; once again 'and then not'
You're no slouch yourself. You are a little bit of the Heroin I spoke of.
Beautifully written - inspired poetry. The fact that you share the source of your inspiration is interesting, but I hasten to add that the poem would stand superbly without it. Clear, articulate penning - in truth and with heart. love, Allie ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
My friend you write a passionate truth! There is an exaggerated realism in the memory.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Delivering Poems Around The World
Poems are the property of their respective owners. All information has been reproduced here for educational and informational purposes to benefit site visitors, and is provided at no charge...
5/1/2024 2:01:16 AM # 1.0.0.1119
This is wonderful. What a good, thoughtful piece inspired by that one thought. This one resonates and will stay with me a long time. Raynette