A Poem About the Need For Notebooks -Alan j Wright

'Writing is evidence that we exist.'

Donald Graves

This poem regarding notebooks emerged during my recent holdiay in Bali. Since returning home it has undergone some polishing. The poem's title gives a nod to the late actor, Karl Malden who made the phrase famous in an advertisement for American Express some years ago.

My one small regret is that this poem emerged after the publication of my latest book, 'Notebook Notions.' I opened Notebook Notions with a poem about writing and feel this poem would have neatly closed the book. Afterall, the book is a reflective journey through 43 years of notebook scribing.

Don’t Leave Home Without It

Take your notebook with you

When you leave

For other lands,

Visit other cities,

When you wander down streets

Of unfamiliar towns.

Your notebook

Will remind you of exactly who you are

And where you are from

And matters residing safely in your heart.

Years from now,

The words you gather will reveal

To future generations

The life you lived,

The path you forged,

In those exciting times.

Alan j Wright

It is yet again , Poetry Friday and our host on this occasion is Carol Varsalona who is celebrating the arrival of Autumnal days in the northern hemisphere. Fall into Autumn with Carol.

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