Once Again I Fail to Read an Important Novel
by George Bilgere
Instead, we sit together beside the fountain,
the important novel and I.
We are having coffee together
in that quiet first hour of the morning,
respecting each other's silences
in the shadow of an important old building
in this small but significant European city.
All the characters can relax.
I'm giving them the day off.
For once they can forget about their problems—
desire, betrayal, the fatal denouement—
and just sit peacefully beside me.
Here's the rest.
I'm off to New Orleans today for the IRA conference. I'm hoping to see some Poetry Friday regulars there! Meanwhile, Jama's hosting the roundup today, so it's bound to be delicious!
2 minutes ago
12 comments:
Love it, Ruth! Enjoy your trip :-)
Splendid poem -- been meaning to read more of Bilgere's work. Such a unique perspective on things.
Enjoy IRA!
Oh, lucky you - New Orleans and IRA! I discovered Bilgere only recently, and love his perspective.
I'm thinking we are all wishing to be in New Orleans this weekend. Please post your travelog next week.
I love it! I don't know Bilgere. I will have to investigate.
I love it! I like how he really extends the idea, and it is all relevant, thoughtful, and delightful.
How often have dates with myself turned out like this one-- I bring a book only to zone out instead. Enjoy IRA-- I'm glad to hear you must be feeling better then.
I'm envious, but hope you're having a glass of cool wine right now, Ruth! Thanks for the poem. Somewhere I've heard it, but have thought it was a bit of making fun of readers, engrossed in their books.
Most of the people who give novel-writing advice would not agree with Mr. Bilgere. They say keep your character in perpetual trouble. But I think it's a good idea, both for the writer and the reader. Everyone needs a day off.
I love, love, love this! I can't count the number of important novels I have read this way! Enjoy New Orleans.
I love Bilgere's poetry even more after hearing him speak and read his work.
Sad to miss seeing you -- NOLA was not in my budget this year (time OR money). Hope to catch up at NCTE in November!
I feel this way towards Donna Tartt's The Goldfinch - not that I don't love the book, it's just that sometimes its mere presence beside me is comforting. :) Have fun in New Orleans!
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