A Favorite Poem, Revisited

I was reading through an old journal this morning and stumbled across a poem that a good friend had once shared with me. The poem is titled, "The Art of Disappearing." It is by Naomi Shihab Nye.

This is the second time I have posted this poem. The first was shortly after I have read it in 2004. You can see the original post here, though the image that was originally attached to it is gone (the blog having migrated twice).

A couple of years ago I had the honor of meeting Naomi Shihab Nye when Pete and Debbie from the local bookstore The Reading Reptile brought her in as a part of an author event. I bought a couple of her collections, then stood in line to have her inscribe them (one for me, one for the friend who shared her with me). The best part was the wonderful conversation with her that followed upon her signing the books. That was a gift.

I hope you get some pleasure and perspective from her poetry today.

The Art of Disappearing

When they say Don't I know you? say no.

When they invite you to the party
remember what parties are like
before answering.

Someone telling you in a loud voice
they once wrote a poem.

Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.

Then reply.


If they say we should get together.
say why? It's not that you don't love them any more.

You're trying to remember something
too important to forget.

Trees.

The monastery bell at twilight.

Tell them you have a new project.

It will never be finished. When someone recognizes you in a grocery store
nod briefly and become a cabbage.

When someone you haven't seen in ten years
appears at the door,
don't start singing him all your new songs.

You will never catch up.

Walk around feeling like a leaf. Know you could tumble any second.

Then decide what to do with your time.

Comments

[rachel]

i was given this poem a few years ago from a friend and love it. love. it.

[Mark Wampler]

Tim I started reading a book tonight that reminded me of some broad thoughts that you touched on in Intuitive Leadership. Thoughts on overview of Western culture and history. Check it out on my blog and tell me what you think of O'Malley's four. I'm not too sure what I think yet but am very intrigued. Maybe it is because 'till now I have not wanted read an overview of Western history because of highschool!