Modern Narcissus Poem by Robert Charles Howard

A very thought provoking poem. Small and beautiful. Anjana

America, 'the beautiful'... but for how long? Great write, Robert... we've definitely got a superiority complex. Brian

Robert...sad but true...to beleive that money and power can rule the world...there is so much America, for that matter any rich country, can do for the poor people all over the world...and i think an American is very charitable and giving...they are the policies they have no control over that makes the world think differently...love...nalini

With all the anti-war poems (and, sadly, anti-American) and the poor quality that type of poem usually throws up, it is great to see a piece of critical/political narrative that is not only first class in its genre but a first class piece full.stop. The contrasting of the Narcissus legend with the American dreamis a great piece of work. The words are placed wonderfully.

This is simply wonderful. Echoes in the mind.

I do so like how you express yourself, Robert, and I'd like to echo everything that Denis Joe said. I adore the intelligence of this and frankly, too, the absence of anger. Anger, it seems to me, most often breeds only itself in response. Let us hope that the wisdom you've offered will do the same. Perhaps though - we really ought take a good long look at our own reflection periodically. I'd like to think we'd not be so blind as to ignore the truth of what we find staring back at us, you know? Christine

Both heart and mind lump in my throat at this, particularly at a time when temps veer from 78 down to 38 in less than 12 hrs. What kind of earth is this for the meek to inherit? Or our children, for that matter. Well said, sad to say...

Stems from a deep and genuine concern for your country, its people and their direction. Europe is no better Robert - it's probably world wide. The simple, good and decent things such as fundamental moral principles and the cost of defending them once upon a time, are all taken for granted now. Shallowness is the order of the day. A poignant very potently expressed lament. So much can change for the worse in just a few generations. Maybe it's a basic human nature problem. Do we need imminent threat or serious challenge to restore us to a more dignified condition? But all is not lost when there are still people around like yourself who still believe, and who make their point so effectively. Another important reminder. jim

America the beautiful-sort of the modern Roman Empire. Of course, just like them with all their great architecture marvels, even a working sewer system, there was still the awful stench that pervaded the air. GWG

Robert, I've always wanted to write a narcissus poem, and now I find you've already written it. Sublime, strong, like moon pulling tides. phillip