Hymn to Imminent Enlightenment

Summary

"Hymn to Imminent Enlightenment" is a contemplative poem by Melissa Coffey that reflects on the journey of self-realization and the search for the divine within.

Abstract

The poem "Hymn to Imminent Enlightenment" by Melissa Coffey delves into the spiritual quest for self-discovery and enlightenment. It portrays the author's longing to align with her innermost self, which she perceives as a sacred journey akin to a religious hymn. Through the poem, Coffey conveys the anticipation of becoming her true self, interpreting everyday occurrences as meaningful omens and finding solace in the act of writing. The poem is a response to POMprompt#16, "What is the Song of You," and resonates with the idea of praising a higher power within oneself. Coffey's work is characterized by a deep introspection and the belief that the divine resides within, guiding the poet to uncover her true essence.

Opinions

The poet views the process of self-realization as an alchemical transformation, turning the leaden soul into gold.
Coffey treats daily events as significant signs, suggesting a belief in the interconnectedness of life's seemingly mundane moments with the profound journey of self-discovery.
The poem reflects a sense of patience and acceptance, as the author awaits the unfolding of her true self, which is already present within her heart.
The use of sensory imagery, such as the magpie's trill and the silence of the night, indicates a reverence for the natural world as a source of wisdom and guidance.
The poem suggests that creative expression, particularly through writing, serves as a form of divination and self-understanding for the author.
Coffey's definition of "god" as a higher power within oneself points to a personal, introspective spirituality that transcends traditional religious boundaries.

On the journey of self-realization — a poem

“I’m Seeking You” —Image courtesy of Asghar Gonchehpour from “Sufi Dance” Series http://artforheart.daportfolio.com/gallery/206175#8

Waiting to become what I already am I seek the elusive element, an alchemical miracle; utter midnight incantations of transformation to turn my leaden soul into gold; waiting to become what I already am I attend to omens; the magpie’s trill at my window as I wake, your phone call in the moment I miss you yet most days, I must content with the pen in my hand for my oracle; words for runes

Awaiting the other that dwells already inside my heart, a floundering vessel; swaying wildly, in dumb hope beneath a cloud-swathed sky for a glimpse of star-wisdom awaiting the other that dwells already inside, I yearn into the dark with seeing fingertips; a blind woman, tracing the brow of her beloved a deaf woman, intent on the eloquence of silence

Melissa Coffey is an Australian writer, editor, poet & performer. She is a series of expanding possibilities. Her short stories, creative essays & poetry are published in various international & Australian anthologies (sometimes incognito). Peruse her profile to see her work across numerous publications.

This poem is a response to POMprompt#16 — “What is the Song of You”? In finding a title for this poem, I was delighted to discover that the definition of “hymn” is: a religous song or poem in praise to God or a god. I define “god” here as appealing to a higher power.

Read more from this Writer:

Hymn to Imminent Enlightenment

On the journey of self-realization — a poem

What is the ‘Song of You’

POMprompt #16

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