I am grateful to fellow Poetry Friday participant, Ramona Behnke for alerting me to Padraig O'Tuamo's podcast, 'Poetry Unbound.' I undertook some focused listening and just happened to land on an episode highlighting the poem 'When In Doubt' by Sandra Cisneros.
Powerful words from Sandra Cisneros, author of the
children's classic, ‘The House On Mango Street.' I first became aware of
Sandra's work when living and teaching in New York. I was immediately taken by
the writer's ability to capture the voice of a young girl living in Chicago's
Latino sector. In a series of stunning vignettes, the young girl's story
unfolds. So, it was with this background knowledge I found myself keen to
explore this promise of a poem...
WHEN IN DOUBT
When in doubt,
Wear faux leopard.
When in doubt,
Err on the side of generosity.
When in doubt,
Greet everyone as you would the Buddha.
When in doubt,
Collect blessings from those who own nothing.
When in doubt,
Absorb biographies to avoid life’s major mistakes.
When in doubt,
Make life’s major mistakes.
When in doubt,
Pay attention to the vendor shouting ‘Diooooos,’
Even when you find out he was only shouting, ‘Gaaaaas.’
When in doubt,
Carry a handkerchief and a fan.
When in doubt,
Thank everyone. Twice.
When in doubt,
Heed the clouds.
When in doubt,
Sleep on it.
When in doubt,
Treat all sentient and insentient beings as kin.
When in doubt,
Forgive us our myopia
As we forgive those who are myopic against us.
When in doubt,
Unreel your grief to a tree.
When in doubt,
Remember this.
We are all on a
Caucus-race.
There is no start.
No finish.
Everyone wins.
Written by Sandra Cisneros
Now you've made me want to revisit The House on Mango Street! When in doubt, reread the book...
ReplyDeleteThat's a great outcome, Buffy. It remains a favourite and has inspired some writing sparks for me over the years.
DeleteOh, my goodness...I love the poem! The repetition, the high minded things, the simple things to consider when in doubt. This poem is a keeper. I'm so glad you are now part of the Poetry Unbound club! That podcast gives me so much. I love listening and repeating episodes and learning what feels like being alongside the teacher...and now you too.
ReplyDeleteIt's a poem that clings to cosciousness, Linda. I agree, it's a keeper. Poetry Unbound is a real find.
DeleteOh, yes. That one's definitely a roadmap for good living. Also a great mentor text. I may try writing my own "When in Doubt" poem...
ReplyDeleteYes, indeed, Mary Lee. May your writing efforts prove rewarding...
DeleteI had almost forgotten about House on Mango Street ! Love this poem with its words of wisdom and truths. I need to read more of Cisneros's work, now. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWords of wisdom are bountiful in this poem, Jama. You are correct. Good luck with your Cisneros research.
DeleteI love this poem so much, Alan. What a beautiful and generous choice this week.
ReplyDeleteGlad you like it Karen. It's a keeper.
DeleteThis is Janice. I also want to reread the House on Mango Street. Such a lovely poem. When in doubt it is important to recognize it . Thanks, Alan!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you want to go back to The House On Mango Street, Janice. May you make new discoveries in the reread. Sandra Cisneros's poem is indeed thought provoking.
DeleteI wanted to highlight a favourite line, but couldn't pick, each one carries so much meaning. I haven't read "The House on Mango Street", but I've requested a copy from my library, and I look forward to reading it!
ReplyDeleteI agree, Jane. This poem is indeed packed with many note worthy lines. I hope you enjoy reading 'The House On Mango Strreet.' It remains one of my favourite, thought provoking books.
Delete