Looking for Answers

Summary

The website presents a reflective poem by Michael Ritoch on the themes of existential angst, personal identity, and coping with life's hardships, including a battle with cancer.

Abstract

Michael Ritoch shares his introspective poem titled "Looking for Answers," which delves into the depths of his struggles with his identity and the societal expectations of being a "true-man." His verses reveal a deep sense of disillusionment and an inability to communicate his inner turmoil. The poem reflects on the losses and costs associated with inaction, the poet's turn to alcohol and prayers in search of solace, and the devastating news of his illness, which he interprets as a divine response to his pleas. Despite the gravity of his situation, Ritoch expresses a desire to find meaning through his writing, though he acknowledges the potential futility of the endeavor. The poem is accompanied by related links to Ritoch's other works, suggesting a broader exploration of similar themes.

Opinions

The author conveys a sense of personal fragmentation and dissatisfaction with societal roles.
There is a feeling of being trapped by one's circumstances and past decisions.
The poem suggests that traditional sources of comfort, such as religion, may not provide the answers or solace sought.
The poet expresses a sense of irony and perhaps resentment towards a deity for responding to prayers with adversity.
Despite the bleakness of his situation, there is a persistent, if somewhat contrite, attempt to create meaning through writing.

Looking for Answers

I’m here remembering my soul dismembering profiting off my wo-man failing to be a true-man

yesterday’s words fail closed to me like a jail door swinging one way my mouth unable to convey

the things I lost and the incremental cost of doing nothing wishing to be something

or someone anyone but I lay here drinking a beer

praying to a God who left His chosen few I hoped for an answer He did, He gave me cancer

So I lay still left to pay the bill leeching words to write but it all feels a bit contrite

_________________________ Michael Ritoch plays at being a poet/writer. He finds joy in his wife, two daughters, cats, one is really fat and the other is neurotic, reading philosophy written by old dead guys, and his friends. He writes about leadership, pain, life, suffering, and whatever comes to mind.

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