Poem — I Want To Be Old

Summary

The poem "I Want To Be Old" reflects on the anticipations and uncertainties of aging, contemplating the significance of memories, relationships, and the future.

Abstract

"I Want To Be Old" is a contemplative poem that delves into the author's deep curiosity about the realities of old age. The poet expresses a desire to experience the passage of time to understand which memories and relationships are truly valuable. The poem touches on themes of mortality, legacy, and the transformation of the world, as the speaker imagines a future with advanced technology and the personal changes that come with aging. The poem concludes with an acceptance of life's cycle, acknowledging that the ultimate destination is death, which is presented as a natural and acceptable end.

Opinions

The poet is eager to discover which life experiences and people will prove to have been meaningful.
There is a longing to witness the evolution of the world and human interaction with it, such as the changing seasons and advancements in technology.
The author ponders the role of family in old age, specifically the presence and support of a father figure.
The poem suggests a whimsical acceptance of the unknown, including the idea of being misunderstood by alien life forms after death.
The poet embraces the inevitability of death, viewing it as a part of life's journey rather than something to be feared.

Like right now.

I cannot wait to see How being old would be Whether I will hold up until the end Or would I sooner be free?

I want to know which parts I’d remember and what never deserved my time I’d like to see who stuck longer And who was never to be mine

I want to know if my old man is standing by my bedside watching me as I wake up, thanking heavens I’m alive.

I want to see if in future the leaves still fall to the ground Or will there be metal birds that don’t ever make a sound

I want to be confused and let my car decide If the doctor hears the news Or if I just need a ride.

I want that alien scientists tear my remains apart I want to be excavated to space And be misclassified as a pot.

I want to grow old. I want to get to the end Isn’t that the point? to be perfectly dead?