“That is how I explained myself to the strange impression I had of being odd man out, a kind of intruder.” ― Albert Camus – The Stranger
Whether the outsider is viewed looking on
or appears as insider peering out
depends on whose eyes scrutinize
who populates the proposition
what lies are spread on either side
Those of us joined by birth or circumstance
into the associates of intrusion we know
know how to splice the sacrifice open
distinguish intestinal runes
fathom where to bore down for the core
extricate layers of infernal dust
ashen and ink blotted our lexicon
prefab poems with word association
You there with such high toned observations
dancing atoms on the outer circle
ruminaters of consciousness
feel rather the rumbling rhythm of drum
cushioned heartbeat of harmonies
dare to hold out hands for holding
record repetitive refrains
join the dots
Forgive all arrogance of loners
pardon smug content of socializers
the mirror speaks false from side to side
illusion the perpetual divide
Merging two opposing theme prompts here – from Karin’s Outsider to Paul’s Community
Combining “outsider” and “community” seems appropriate. I liked the association of “mirror” and “illusion”.
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well-spotted – almost subliminal to the writer!
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I adore this. It is firstly written in a way that sways delicately whilst balancing on the tightrope of the proposition it tackles. How you wrap it all up is sublime. Of course illusion. Thank You so much for this inclusion to the prompt.
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I sway with outsiders I guess so your prompt was quite a challenge! glad I found a way to be included
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Well you met it…and some.
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The image of that border that exists between people is perfect. I can see the divide and how a perfect community is impossible.
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all we need is to cross the (imaginary) border of types
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You expound the philosophy in a very compelling style. Excellent piece.
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so nicely put – thank you Kerry 🙂
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Loving this:
“the mirror speaks false from side to side
illusion the perpetual divide”
Wonderful.
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Touch of Tennyson appearing there!
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You bring out the hypocrisy and really self-interest or solipsism that can exist in either side with great sounds as well! Thanks, Laura.
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Spot on solipsism is a two-sided mirror – thank you
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An interesting concept, beautifully presented!
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Thank you Beverley – had to be a two prompter to conceive this one – struggled with each alone
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Fascinating, and all too persuasive.
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I like that word – persuasive!
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Great read. I love the two-sided mirror, how true in real life.
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Glad you enjoyed Rasz
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Well done and a unique merge
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It took the third to join them like all trinitys!
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Those of us joined by birth or circumstance
into the associates of intrusion we know
know how to splice the sacrifice open
One is familiar with relatives but when it comes to outsiders even neighbors are practically strangers. That’s modern living. Very true Laura!
Hank
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The outsider is often born into a family and finds fellowship on the outside! But no always…
““Here, too, I found neither home nor company, nothing but a seat from which to view a stage where strange people played strange parts.”
― Hermann Hesse, Steppenwolf
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I love the association of “mirror” and “illusion”.. you have given me something to chew on 🙂
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Hope it’s not too tough 😉
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‘Illusion the perpetual divide’ ….this poem is so rich
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Thank you Janice – I like that description!
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I’ll be sleeplessly ruminating on this tonight.
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then we’ll be a community of insomniacs!
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Such is the like of poetic maniacs.
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mouthful but a canny half rhyme
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I appreciate the seemingly contrasting reflections but from the same viewpoint ~ Much to ponder on this one ~
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there is opposition in these opposing views but that is probably a touch of envy – if only we had not the tendency to polarize we could be all things!
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