The Resemblance Between Your Life and a Dog -- Robert Bly (Redux)

[Guest guest]

The Resemblance Between Your Life and a Dog

 

I never intended to have this life, believe me -It just happened. You know how dogs turn upAt a farm, and they wag but can't explain.

 

It's good if you can accept your life - you'll noticeYour face has become deranged trying to adjustTo it. Your face thought your life would look

 

 

Like your bedroom mirror when you were ten.That was a clear river touched by mountain wind.Even your parents can't believe how much you've changed.

 

 

Sparrows in winter, if you've ever held one, all feathers,Burst out of your hand with a fiery glee.You see them later in hedges. Teachers praise you,

 

 

But you can't quite get back to the winter sparrow.Your life is a dog. He's been hungry for miles.Doesn't particularly like you, but gives up, and comes in.

 

 

~ Robert Bly ~

 

(Eating the Honey of Words: New and Selected Poems)