“Land-Ho! Backward We Go!”

Summary

The poem "Land-Ho! Backward We Go!" reflects on the concept of self-identity and the illusion of duality, urging introspection and unity with oneself.

Abstract

The poem "Land-Ho! Backward We Go!" delves into the human tendency to separate the self into dual entities, questioning the validity of this division. It suggests that the act of self-discovery through travel and reflection often leads to a sacrificial loss of one's true essence, as individuals forsake their spirit for superficial explorations. The author critiques the habit of abandoning challenging situations for easier paths and the neglect of personal growth in favor of societal expectations. The poem emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings within the universe, challenging the reader to recognize the unity of existence and to abandon the notion of a fractured self. It concludes with a call to acknowledge the oneness of the self and the cosmos, rejecting apologies and encouraging alignment between thought and action.

Opinions

The author believes that the pursuit of self-discovery often leads to a fragmented identity, rather than a holistic understanding of the self.
There is a critique of society's tendency to avoid confronting difficult realities, preferring instead to follow well-trodden paths that lead to complacency.
The poem suggests that individuals are too quick to separate themselves from the universe and each other, ignoring the fundamental unity that binds all existence.
It is implied that people often play roles and use watchwords without genuine thought, expecting recognition without substance.
The author expresses a desire for self-awareness and personal responsibility, discouraging the practice of self-deception and the acceptance of a false sense of self.
The poem conveys a philosophical stance that true understanding comes from recognizing the self in the cosmos and vice versa, advocating for a harmonious existence that transcends individual ego.

A Poem Exploring The Shores Of Reflection

We seek that duality we break “I” from me Don’t you see how there’s, in fact, unity?

Travel forfeits thyself in sacrificial toll Careful when walking that oft-visited soil It forsakes your pneuma, your body just foils

When trouble breaks over and we disregard it Better to cut it and run in the direction more sordid

We seek reality’s fracture, new roads to ignore We leave the ones with sores and embers in furor

The sand of these crowded deserted shores Suits better the pleasantries of an incapable horde

Think of yourselves as more than misshapen curds You honeydew fickle, a cat with no claws You play with watchwords, and expect applause?

For you are myself, thyself in me, our I’s are selves only presently Despise seeing myself lose voluntarily Upon the shores of false duality

Don’t you see? Is this I!? Don’t sorry me! How you’ve done for yourself that disaccord You constantly award for no thoughts afterward

Separating universe, separating one We are all that there is in the cosmos at once

How could you know? With such false impunity Why there’s, in fact, unity

Thanks for reading! Ilija Begic

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“Land-Ho! Backward We Go!”

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