We read that poem in my contemporary literature class at FSU.
I love it.
It speaks so much about the human condition.
There is, first, the classic Monet theme. Everything looks perfect from far away. We see only the surface of this man. His attitude and perhaps that he has wealth. The fact being that everyone has problems. It could be loneliness, illness, mental defect or even a self-loathing because of past regrets or wrong-doings (either against him or his against others).
Of course, the cliche being that material things do not equal happiness. Though, you could also argue that he didn't really have wealth. Maybe it was all a facade and he drove himself so far in the hole there was no way out.
I think beneath the surface you can look at a theme about misrepresentation. If he hadn't been so happy in appearance (no matter the cause of his misery) might someone have extended a hand in his aid? Offered him companionship, counseling, charity? Perhaps his worst transgression was presenting himself in a false manner.
The truth being that all human beings that you are not will forever be a mystery. Never assume you know everything about them, because you don't. Consequently, you will always be a mystery to all those who occupy your life. Do not assume they know what you are, what you want, what you need. People don't know how you feel, only what you show.
I love it.
It speaks so much about the human condition.
There is, first, the classic Monet theme. Everything looks perfect from far away. We see only the surface of this man. His attitude and perhaps that he has wealth. The fact being that everyone has problems. It could be loneliness, illness, mental defect or even a self-loathing because of past regrets or wrong-doings (either against him or his against others).
Of course, the cliche being that material things do not equal happiness. Though, you could also argue that he didn't really have wealth. Maybe it was all a facade and he drove himself so far in the hole there was no way out.
I think beneath the surface you can look at a theme about misrepresentation. If he hadn't been so happy in appearance (no matter the cause of his misery) might someone have extended a hand in his aid? Offered him companionship, counseling, charity? Perhaps his worst transgression was presenting himself in a false manner.
The truth being that all human beings that you are not will forever be a mystery. Never assume you know everything about them, because you don't. Consequently, you will always be a mystery to all those who occupy your life. Do not assume they know what you are, what you want, what you need. People don't know how you feel, only what you show.
Share yourself, and be open to receive others.
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