(January 17, 1914 – August 28, 1993 / Kansas)

A Ritual To Read To Each Other

If you don't know the kind of person I am
and I don't know the kind of person you are
a pattern that others made may prevail in the world
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Comments about this poem (A Ritual To Read To Each Other by William Stafford )

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  • Leslie Kline (4/30/2013 1:13:00 PM)

    I used to know this poem by heart, then lost it for many years. Now re-found; happy.

    1 person liked.
    1 person did not like.
  • Stephen Shindler (2/3/2012 1:46:00 PM)

    I like to punch people named Nick in the face.

    6 person liked.
    25 person did not like.
  • Stephen Shindler (2/3/2012 1:45:00 PM)

    I really really like toytels...

    9 person liked.
    22 person did not like.
  • Stephen Shindler (2/3/2012 1:41:00 PM)

    When I grow up, I wanna be a super hero... Captain Hammer.

    4 person liked.
    22 person did not like.
  • Luke Debee (2/3/2012 1:41:00 PM)

    I find it interesting how this poet, William Stafford, looks like a drunk bad guy from a generic western film. I'm just stating an obvious opinion.

    7 person liked.
    22 person did not like.
  • ari anna arena (11/2/2006 10:36:00 AM)

    The last stanza is a summation of all of life. So beautifully said.So true.

    20 person liked.
    7 person did not like.
  • E F (8/30/2006 4:25:00 PM)

    It states to me that we know and yet say not what it is we know and leave ourselves marooned and lost. That we may miss our way or be influenced by what others say we should be. That when we awake we stay awake and be lucid and transparent. That we be clear with ourselves and then be clear to those around and stay true to our self, no matter what darkness prevails.

    17 person liked.
    5 person did not like.
  • Phillip Sawatzky (3/31/2006 11:49:00 PM)

    One of the truly great poems of all times. The theme of the individual, each individual as integral to the well-being of the community is stated so gently, yet with such power that it makes me shudder deep inside.

    20 person liked.
    6 person did not like.
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