Question
by May Swenson (1913-1989)
Body my house
my horse my hound
what will I do
when you are fallen
Where will I sleep
How will I ride
What will I hunt
Where can I go
without my mount
all eager and quick
How will I know
in thicket ahead
is danger or treasure
when Body my good
bright dog is dead
How will it be
to lie in the sky
without roof or door
and wind for an eye
With cloud for shift
how will I hide?
Swenson's poem is notable for its extended question, metaphors, and spritely sadness. Swenson knew how to shape a line. The body acts and shelters. I remember reading advice about writing poems; don't ask questions was among the suggestions. So much for that!
Tuesday Poem is an inclusive community of poets.
Mim, dear, I've always adored this lovely bright-edged poem. I'm so very glad you posted it. It deserves to be better known!
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful! It's sad, but anyway...
ReplyDeleteI didn't know it before.
"So much for that"; no questions... :-)
these questions simply explain a not-defined but basic feeling
it's gorgeous. break the rules all of them. it's the only way to be original. swensen know how.
ReplyDeletexo
These questions were for sure able to keep me awak at 03.40 in the morning. Thank you for sharing, as I did not know the writer before.
ReplyDeletePlease have a wonderful Wednesday.
barefoot navigation
wonderful how she spins the question out until the answer becomes immaterial.
ReplyDeleteThe sense of sadness and abandon overwhelmed me. Not that I minded, by the way. Why is it that most poems about houses or even likening houses to bodies sound so ominous? My favourite is the late Cuban poet Dulca Maria Loynaz's 'Ultimos Dias de una Casa'. It's one of the most heart-rending pieces I've ever read in my life.
ReplyDeleteAnd now, time for some good news, too. The debate about feminism is live on my blog now. Many thanks for taking part in it.
Greetings from London.
Susan, yes by the end one doesn't ask for answers.
ReplyDeleteCuban, I'll check in right now and see what's happening at your blog; will also find Dulca Maria Loynaz's poem.
I keep coming back to have a look at this.
ReplyDeleteYes, the questions. I do not like the shoulds or should nevers.