Being

Summary

The poem reflects on the narrator's control over their own existence and the interpretation of their life's journey.

Abstract

The poem delves into the narrator's introspection about their life's path, emphasizing their power to define its meaning and course. Despite the river's varying speeds, symbolizing life's fluctuations, the narrator remains resolute, asserting their agency over their destiny and the legacy they leave behind. The poem suggests a defiance against external judgments, with the narrator insisting on their own truth and the right to celebrate their existence on their terms.

Opinions

The narrator believes in their ability to shape the meaning of their life.
There is a recognition of life's unpredictable nature, likened to a river with variable currents.
The narrator rejects the idea of succumbing to life's challenges, viewing them as part of their journey.
The poem conveys a sense of self-determination, with the narrator declaring their authority to name their experiences.
The narrator acknowledges the inevitability of death, but doesn't see it as diminishing the value of their life.

A poem

If I tell you it isn’t true, then

I’ll change all its meaning.

And revel in the cause to

Celebrate my being. I’ve got

My mind made up. Speculated

This river’s flow. Too fast and

Powerful. Sometimes, too slow.

It’s ascending. I continue. And

The demise? All the same.

There’s no point in pretending.

I dictate its name.