The Meaning of Wisdom*

Summary

The web content presents a reflective poem titled "The Meaning of Wisdom" by Harry Stefanakis, inspired by Yannis Ritsos, which explores the pursuit of wisdom through simple observations, alongside an explanation of the poem's origins and the artwork associated with it.

Abstract

The poem "The Meaning of Wisdom" by Harry Stefanakis is a reimagining of Yannis Ritsos' work, aiming to convey the essence of wisdom through the depiction of everyday scenes, such as the glisten of summer outside a café and the blur of a passing bicycle. Stefanakis invites readers to find wisdom in the mundane and to experience a merging of minds with the author. The poem emphasizes that wisdom is not just about understanding but also about the willingness to cross thresholds and embrace change. Accompanying the poem is artwork by Stefanakis, which is a collage incorporating his own art and elements from a piece by Greek artist Nikoloidis, symbolizing the layered nature of inspiration and creativity. The author acknowledges the influence of Ritsos on his work, stating that while the poem is a personal interpretation, it pays homage to the original poet's wisdom and craftsmanship.

Opinions

The author believes that wisdom can be found in simple, everyday experiences and objects.
Stefanakis suggests that true wisdom is recognized when one is willing to act upon it, to "cross over."
The poem is presented as a tribute to Yannis Ritsos, with Stefanakis admitting that his work is both an homage and a personal expression.
The success of the poem is attributed to Ritsos' original wisdom, while its shortcomings are accepted as the author's own.
The accompanying artwork is also a form of homage, combining original and borrowed elements to create something new, with permission from the original artist.
The author encourages engagement with poetry, as indicated by the linked article "The Power of Poetry," which may also provide submission guidelines.

The Meaning of Wisdom*

After Yannis Ritsos

Art by Harry Stefanakis

I look for wisdom in simple things so you can follow me, as I follow them if I’m not there, your eyes will see what I have seen Our minds will merge

The summer glistens outside (the café) the shine on my bicycle spokes alerting their presence, (they got that way because of what the world is saying to us), each standing solitary yet radiating to one place like wisdom bowing to the center.

Another bicycle speeds by, a wheel blur each individual lost in service only truth remains

Everything is a threshold to wisdom, one often passed by and that’s when wisdom is true: when it insists you cross over.

*This poem is a cover version of Y. Ritsos’ poem “The Meaning of Simplicity” with which I introduced my book of poetry Through Silence and Ash. Like a cover of a song, it is an homage to the original artist while displaying the individuality of the covering artist. In other words, I shamelessly borrowed his tune and even some of his lyrics yet imbued it with my own message and personality. To the extent that this poem fails, it is solely the failings of this author. To the extent that it succeeds, everything is owed to the original wisdom and wordsmithing of Ritsos.

The art is also cover of sorts. It’s a collage of a piece of original art by myself merged with a café painting (that I copied and altered) by Greek artist Nikoloidis, a friend of the family, and used with his permission.

The Meaning of Wisdom*

The Power of Poetry

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