out & about // rod mckuen

UP AHEAD, Rod McKuen 1972

Three days into my no-phone week has allowed me to do more reading. It's a little embarrassing how long it's been since I've read anything of substance. After I finished college, I pretty much avoided any & all forms of knowledge. The reading that I've been doing this week isn't substantial in an educational sense, but more so edifying. I've been pouring over my collection of Rod McKuen books. McKuen has been my favorite poet ever since I can remember. When I was in high school we were given an assignment to memorize & recite a poem in front of the class. I chose what is still now my favorite McKuen poem, which I wanted to share with you below. 

ABSOLUTES

How true is truth

                how absolute?

If I say love

do I mean loving you

to the intrusion of all else

and of all others?

And do I know

if I mean that?

Let me say

I will not lie to you

and know that I'm lying.

Nor will I comfort you

in any false way

however expedient that may seem.

And if I catch myself pretending

I'll tell on me

however much it hurts.

Fall down

with me, for now

and let me prove to you

how much I love

inside out and outside in.

If you're still afraid

then guide me if you like.

I love your hand

as much as I love

what's inside your heart.

- Rod McKuen, 1972

Hope you all are having a lovely week. 

xoxo, 

-m.e.

Related // The picture was taken during my sunrise meet-up.