avatarJim Dutton

Summary

This text is a reflective poem that contemplates the myriad experiences of life, from the solitude of fishermen to the sacrifice of soldiers, the beauty of nature, the disillusionment of youth with materialism, and the poet's yearning to capture these moments in verse.

Abstract

The poem "How Many…" by Jim Dutton delves into the profound and often unnoticed moments that make up the human experience. It questions the number of fishermen who brave treacherous conditions to earn their living, the mothers who mourn their fallen soldier sons, and the rare instances of natural beauty that touch the soul. The poem also critiques the disconnection between the older generation's wisdom and the younger generation's pursuit of superficial success, as well as the eternal quest of poets to immortalize these fleeting moments through their writing.

Opinions

  • The poem suggests a reverence for the solitary and dangerous profession of fishing, acknowledging the personal risk and the intimate relationship fishermen have with the sea.
  • It conveys a deep empathy for the silent sorrow of mothers who have lost their children to war, highlighting the personal cost of conflict.
  • The text expresses a sense of awe and spiritual connection in the presence of nature's grandeur, whether in the mountains or on tropical islands.
  • There is a critical view of the modern business world, seen as lacking authenticity and failing to engage with the deeper truths that youth seeks.
  • The poem reflects a poet's dedication to their craft, implying a willingness to endure hardship or moral compromise to encapsulate the essence of life's experiences in their work.

How Many…

Common moments of uncommon beauty

Photo by Digital Content Writers India on Unsplash

How many? How many fishermen Have sailed through shoals of killing mist To reach their beds and take their fish? Alone. Alone, the sea enfolds them, Holds them like a mistress.

How many? How many mothers grieve For soldier sons who’ve fought their last? They want to know, but they can’t ask. The sons. The sons, their countries steal them, Yield them up in martyrs’ casks.

How many? How many moments rare On snow-capped slope or sun-drenched cay Embrace your soul as if to say, “Look up. Look up, the sky is faceless,” Faithless, you must learn to pray.

How many? How many children scoff At businessmen in pinstripe suits Who seek The Word but not The Truth? They try. They try, but cannot reach us, Teach us how to share their youth.

And how many poets would suffer or sin To capture them all on the points of their pens?

Jim Dutton © 2021

Poetry
Life
Life Lessons
Mindfulness
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