avatarCarolyn F. Chryst, Ph.D.

Summary

The web content presents a reflective poem titled "Poetry Challenge Day 6: What Dwells Within The Unconscious Mind?" that contemplates the nature of existence and insignificance of human conflicts when viewed from the vast perspective of deep space, inspired by Carl Sagan's influence on the author's subconscious.

Abstract

The poem "Deep Space" is a thought-provoking piece that explores the vastness and mystery of the cosmos, contrasting the grandeur of the universe with the smallness of human life and endeavors. It ponders on the significance of our existence, the beauty of our planet as a "pale blue dot" suspended in the enormity of space, and the irony that we are both nothing and everything within the cosmic scale. The author, CFChryst, pays homage to Carl Sagan, whose ideas permeate the poem's themes of cosmic insignificance and the need for kindness and meaningful living. The poem challenges readers to consider their place in the universe, the futility of conflicts, and the ultimate return to cosmic dust, questioning whether our actions will matter in the grand scheme of the cosmos.

Opinions

  • The author expresses a sense of awe and humility in the face of the vastness of deep space.
  • Human conflicts and achievements are portrayed as trivial when juxtaposed with the cosmic scale.
  • There is an underlying call to live well, be kind, and consider the broader impact of our actions.
  • The poem suggests that despite our individual insignificance, humanity as a whole has the potential to be significant within the universe.
  • The author seems to believe that Carl Sagan's perspective on the cosmos is deeply influential and worth reflecting upon in the context of our own lives.
  • The poem conveys a sense of urgency to appreciate and preserve life on Earth, our "pale blue dot," amidst the vastness of space.

Poetry Challenge Day 6: What Dwells Within The Unconscious Mind?

Deep Space

Homage and credit to Carl Sagan who rules my subconscious mind

Photo by Louis Maniquet on Unsplash

In Deep space

There is a cosmic wind full

Of dust, dead stars, future planets

Particles drifting through the vast firmament.

In deep space

There is a “pale blue dot”

Swirling in a caldron of blackness

Barely visible from

The edge of time,

Bubbling with life that streams from a dying star.

In deep space,

We are nothing, perhaps

We are everything there is…

look out from your vast personal space

look at the deep space of humanity

streams of life coming from the dead.

In deep space

Have we lived well? Have we been kind?

Do our battles and wars matter?

When the last wind blows us back

to the cosmic dust from whence we came —

Will it matter that we once were here,

Swirling in a caldron of black emotions

Trying to be visible

From the edge of time.

CFChryst

April 9, 2006

From Screams of consciousness collection

Revised April 11, 2021

Coming next: Day 7: Choice offers reward or consequences

Poetry On Medium
Poetry
Poem
Diana C
Challenge
Recommended from ReadMedium