Dirge For Two Veterans
July 6, 2023Debris
July 6, 2023Despairing Cries
DESPAIRING cries float ceaselessly toward me, day and night,
The sad voice of Death–the call of my nearest lover, putting forth,
alarmed, uncertain,
This sea I am quickly to sail, come tell me,
Come tell me where I am speeding–tell me my destination.
I understand your anguish, but I cannot help you,
I approach, hear, behold–the sad mouth, the look out of the eyes,
your mute inquiry,
Whither I go from the bed I now recline on, come tell me;
Old age, alarmed, uncertain–A young woman’s voice appealing to me,
for comfort,
A young man’s voice, Shall I not escape?
Walt Whitman
Walt Whitman (1819-1892) was an American poet, essayist, and journalist, often referred to as the "father of free verse". His best-known work, "Leaves of Grass," is a celebration of American democracy, individualism, and the common people. Whitman's poetry also explored themes of sexuality and the body. He is considered one of the most influential poets in American literature.