Book length poems

Ye Gods

     In the poem Ye Gods the speaker embarks on a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. Initially filled with thoughts of future freedom and redemption, the speaker grapples with feelings of shame and societal expectations.  The narrative meanders through themes of identity, love, and divinity as the speaker reflects on flaws, desires, and relationships, particularly highlighting the importance of faith in finding one’s path.

     The journey resembles climbing a tree: as the speaker grows, the view becomes clearer, revealing both the beauty and the struggles of life.  The speaker acknowledges past mistakes and emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, both from self and others.  This act of forgiveness becomes a key to mending rifts, echoing the idea that life’s purpose is to love and help each other heal.

     Furthermore, the speaker explores the contrast between earthly desires and spiritual aspirations, indicating that true happiness is found in devotion to God and community rather than fleeting pleasures.  Using humor and introspection, the poem delves into existential questions about love, friendship, and the intricacies of human relationships.

     The closing thoughts serve as a hopeful invitation for introspection, urging readers to pursue a meaningful existence guided by love and divine connection, ensuring each moment contributes to their spiritual journey.  Overall, Ye Gods is a contemplative piece that encourages self-reflection and the pursuit of deeper relationships with others and with God.

The People of Eden

The poem reflects a deep exploration of self-awareness, faith, and the complexities of human existence. It engages with themes of redemption, the struggle between belief and doubt, and the search for personal identity in a world filled with expectations.

The narrator begins by expressing a belief that life may just be a dream, suggesting that what happens might not matter in the grand scheme of salvation. This can be likened to waking from a dream where the experiences hold no weight, emphasizing an underlying existential concern.

There is a constant tug-of-war between seeking approval from others and pursuing personal freedom. The narrator wishes for a world where they can be true to themselves without the harsh judgment of the outside world, much like an artist yearning for creative autonomy.

The poem underscores the belief in God and the desire for a relationship with Christ, portraying faith as both a guiding light and a cause of confusion. The narrator wrestles with the idea of divine judgment versus personal fulfillment, pondering whether true happiness exists outside of societal constraints.

The complexities of sexuality and societal norms are explored, with the narrator acknowledging their identity while grappling with the church’s views. They emphasize the importance of love and acceptance—both of oneself and from others—as fundamental to their journey.

Ultimately, the poem reflects hope for a better future, where understanding and compassion reign. The narrator yearns for connections that transcend societal flaws, placing weight on kindness and forgiveness as pathways to deeper understanding.

The Absent Lover

This poem begins with an innocent childhood perspective that gives way to a realization of life’s complexities, particularly surrounding love and the influence of religion.

The speaker grapples with their previous choices and relationships that led to emotional turmoil. They express a longing for connection, a desire for purpose, and a quest for understanding the divine. The imagery of love takes many forms – from romantic affection to familial bonds – as the speaker seeks enlightenment and a deeper relationship with God.

Several analogies highlight the speaker’s internal conflict, such as comparing their struggles to a battle against the devil, suggesting a continuous fight for one’s soul and happiness. The poem also touches on themes of acceptance, where the speaker acknowledges their flaws and the necessity for spiritual growth.

Ultimately, the poem emphasizes the hopeful pursuit of love and connection while contemplating the sacrifices made along the journey. The speaker’s reflections serve as a reminder of the complexities of human experience, bridging moments of despair with the possibility of redemption and peace through faith.