Last week I mentioned Wendell Berry's poetic tribute to Hayden Carruth, so this week I'm sharing some Carruth poetics. This one's for Atticus, because we are indeed "two imperfections that match."
by Hayden Carruth
I could take
two leaves
and give you one.
Would that not be
a kind of perfection?
But I prefer
one leaf
torn to give you half
showing
(after these years, simply)
....
(Read the last few lines here.)
~~~~~~~~~~
The Poetry Friday round-up this week is being hosted by
Karen, achingly beautiful to the end. Appreciations!
ReplyDeleteHappy to share it, Jan!
DeleteI love that "two imperfections that match," too--such a perfect description of a long love.
ReplyDeleteRight? I think so too. Thanks for stopping by, Buffy, and thanks again for hosting!
DeleteKaren, I like the image this gives, of marriage as two leaves growing on the same branch … 🕊️
ReplyDeleteelli, I'd never read much Hayden Carruth until I posted last week's Berry poem about him. It's been interesting to dig further into his work.
DeleteBeautiful! The perfection of imperfections. :)
ReplyDeleteYes!
DeleteMm--and what if the two halves are also perfect, because wholeness is overrated and tricky to achieve? Great selection!
ReplyDeleteWholeness IS overrated and tricky to achieve. I agree with Jama — the perfection of imperfections.
DeleteMy husband and I are definitely two imperfections that match. Imperfections are often what endears us to those we love. Love this poem and the image of torn leaves.
ReplyDeleteYes, Janice, it's the imperfections that are so lovable. ❤️
DeleteEnjoyed the simplicity of the message gently wrapped up in this poem, Karen. It serves to remind us about the power of brevity. A message possessed of beauty.
ReplyDeleteAlan, his brevity is impressive indeed. :)
DeleteOh, my goodness...this poem kind of takes my breath away. Simple words, simple metaphor but the depth of meaning is ...well, just takes my breath away. This one's a keeper. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYes, Linda, definitely a keeper!
DeleteWe start off thinking that love, marriage, long friendships...all of those will be the two perfect leaves, but time teaches us about the power of a single torn leaf, of the "imperfections that match." Like Linda said, this one is a keeper!
ReplyDeleteAgree, Mary Lee! My definition of perfection has changed, grown, and, well, worked its way toward an imperfect perfection. :)
DeleteThank you for this, Karen. A beautiful and true sentiment.
ReplyDeleteHappy to share such a lovely little poem, Rose!
DeleteBeautiful, Karen. Thank you for sharing this poet. I am stunned by the simplicity and sincerity of the sentiment in the poem..
ReplyDeleteCarol, I feel the same way. So short, so simple, yet so, well, shall we say perfect? :)
DeleteKaren, there is much to be said about the poem you shared. The opening thought is one that makes me beam with joy for you and Atticus as "two imperfections that match."
ReplyDeleteAw, thank you, Carol. Your generosity in beaming for others at such a difficult period in your life makes me wish I could come over and give you a hug.
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