Summary

The website content discusses the impact of solitude and silence on mental health through poetry, reflecting on the balance between sensory underload in remote living and the vibrancy of urban life.

Abstract

The article delves into the dichotomy of sensory experiences, juxtaposing the tranquility of nature with the sensory overload of city life. It presents a personal narrative about the psychological effects of living in a secluded area, emphasizing the importance of in-person social interactions for mental well-being. The author expresses a longing for the energy of urban environments while acknowledging the peace found in the countryside, ultimately revealing a complex relationship with solitude and the desire for human connection.

Opinions

The author feels a sense of isolation due to living in a remote, quiet area, which contrasts with the missed vitality of suburban life.
There is an appreciation for the nurturing aspects of nature, yet a simultaneous yearning for the human-generated sounds and interactions of city life.
The author values the freedom to choose when to engage with the world and when to retreat into solitude.
The experience of being unable to travel to town for social interactions and services due to a lack of personal transportation has exacerbated feelings of isolation.
The author equates the energy boost from social outings to the effect of a Vitamin B shot, highlighting the restorative power of human connection.
The poem reflects the author's frustration with their current situation and their desire for a more connected and autonomous life.

Poetry/Mental Health

Can Solitude and Silence Underwhelm the Senses?

Poetry Prompt: Taking a moment

Is there a middle kingdom Neither too far over there Where sensory input sleeps in the silence?

Not swinging from that chasm On the other side To overwhelm the senses A wrecking ball demolishing My peace of mind

Sometimes too quiet Despite the birds and crickets Cock crowing and Dogs barking in the valley

Nature nurtures But I often miss the Traffic buzz and voices humming Unheard in Remote connections

Hand me a tripwire Transport me to another world Enliven this dead air Devoid of human contact For just a moment Let me savor sensory overload

Free to retreat Any time I choose

Backstory

The drawback of country living is that we are social beings.

It’s important we connect with others in-person to support a healthy psychological state. Not on Twitter, Facebook, Medium, or any other remote communication, but in the flesh.

Many people envy the tranquil surroundings where I and my partner live.

Financial circumstances forced our relocation. Because it was not our choice, I catch myself missing the vitality of suburban life in the city. Then I imagine being there and realize how much I’d miss the mountains!

We don’t have our own car so depend on using the neighbor’s for shopping. Yesterday he phoned to say the car is in for repairs, awaiting spares. (It’s an old model — could be a long wait!)

As a result, I had to cancel this month’s shopping trip and hair appointment for tomorrow to the nearest town.

This event reinforced my sense of isolation.

I love those outings, meeting people, though masked and at a distance! Enjoy the vibrancy of the mall — chatting with shop assistants, car guards and fellow shoppers.

It’s akin to having a Vitamin B shot that boosts my energy for the next two or three days!

I wish to be free and not beholden to others. My poem expresses that frustration and desire.

Thank you for being here.

Perfect timing for this prompt from Lucy The Eggcademic (she/her):

The Precarious Balance Between Joy and Silence

Poetry Prompt: taking a moment

medium.com

With a response from Veronica Georgieva:

No Saturation

Poetry Prompt: Taking a Moment

medium.com

You may enjoy my alternative perspective:

When Silence Fails to Soothe

Haiku contemplation

medium.com