growth >decay

Summary

The poem reflects on the duality of the pandemic as both a period of personal and environmental growth and a time of decay, emphasizing the transformation of human perspective and the reevaluation of life's priorities.

Abstract

The poem "growth > decay" presents a contemplative take on the quarantine experience, likening it to an equilibrium imposed by nature. It suggests that the pandemic, while isolating and seemingly apocalyptic, offers a chance for introspection and appreciation of previously taken-for-granted experiences. The author muses on the loss of human connection and the haunting silence that replaces the once vibrant sounds of life. However, amidst this stillness, there is an opportunity to discover creativity and patience within solitude, hinting at a reassuring inner voice that promises resilience and adaptation. The poem concludes by acknowledging the past with its memories and experiences as ghosts that linger, yet it also accepts the current reality as the only path forward.

Opinions

The author perceives the pandemic as a form of discipline from Mother Nature, akin to sending children to their rooms to reflect on their actions.
There is a sense of nostalgia and mourning for the loss of normalcy, including simple pleasures like the sound of waves or the warmth of human interaction.
The poem suggests that the pandemic has led to a redefinition of desires and memories, with past activities now feeling like distant echoes.
Solitude is portrayed as a double-edged sword, capable of fostering both loneliness and personal growth.
The author implies that embracing the present circumstances and finding inner strength is crucial for overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic.
The poem conveys a message of hope and endurance, suggesting that humans will adapt and find reassurance in their ability to persevere.

A quarantine poem

I have heard people say this catastrophe is an equilibrium

mother nature taking back what belongs to her teaching her children a lesson by sending them to their rooms where they cry and think about past days that had been wasted by staying inside when it was still possible to go out and be caressed by the sun

there are two ways of looking at it the world coming to an end the extinction of humanity the vanishment of saneness because the only voice you are listening to is yours and then

silence

ringing in your ears

you have forgotten the sound of waves coming to the shore a calming soothing pleasure that sits in the back of your memories just like the sound of laughter or your best friend’s smell or birthday gatherings and long tight hugs at the airport

all of which were part of a different world

“I want to..” is a different way of saying “I used to..” and “I used to..” seems like a long time ago now

and the things I have done are ghosts waiting to be prayed to

in solitude, one can find creativity in solitude, one can find patience an inner voice that is reassuring you that you will be okay

for this is the only way forward.