Friday, September 23, 2016

Poetry Friday: Atlas

This poem seems appropriate for the rotten week I've had.  People try to help, and do help, but there are some things you just have to carry yourself.  Next week will be better...

Atlas
by Kay Ryan

Extreme exertion
isolates a person
from help,
discovered Atlas.
Once a certain
shoulder-to-burden
ratio collapses,
there is so little
others can do:
they can’t
lend a hand
with Brazil
and not stand
on Peru.


I found this at the Poetry Foundation website, and here are more Ryan pieces they have over there.

Here's today's roundup.

9 comments:

Linda B said...

No matter the long days, I hope today is better still, Ruth. This poem is right, and a little sarcastic, right? But, on the mark!

Michelle Heidenrich Barnes said...

Wishing you better days to come, Ruth.

Jane @ www.raincitylibrarian.ca said...

That's a mantra I try to remember when things get tough - next week will be better.

Violet N. said...

It's comforting to find understanding in a poem, isn't it. I love the last lines about Brazil and Peru. Wishing you a much better next week.

Catherine said...

Sometimes we do have to carry our burdens ourselves. Hope you found some comfort in knowing you're not alone, and that the week to come is less stressful.

Anonymous said...

Sorry the week has been tough, Ruth. Glad you found a soulmate in this poem. Praying the next week is much better!

Robyn Hood Black said...

Sending encouraging vibes, Ruth - thanks for taking the time to post this great poem, which I didn't know. I sure could have used two years ago when I so badly injured my neck/shoulder! Heck, I can still use today. And, in fact, need to get up and stretch South America now.... {{hugs}}

Linda Mitchell said...

ah, yes. Kay Ryan can cut to the quick of things. I'm sorry you've had a rough week. Sending you good thoughts for a moment or two of calm, clarity and peace. Thank you for this poem. That last line really gets ya.

Karen Edmisten said...

I'm sorry about the rough week! I hope this week has been better.