I'm Going Back to Minnesota Where Sadness Makes Sense Poem by Danez Smith
I'm Going Back to Minnesota Where Sadness Makes Sense
O California, don't you know the sun is only a god
if you learn to starve for him? I'm bored with the ocean
I stood at the lip of it, dressed in down, praying for snow
I know, I'm strange, too much light makes me nervous
at least in this land where the trees always bear green.
I know something that doesn't die can't be beautiful.
Have you ever stood on a frozen lake, California?
The sun above you, the snow & stalled sea—a field of mirror
all demanding to be the sun too, everything around you
is light & it's gorgeous & if you stay too long it will kill you
& it's so sad, you know? You're the only warm thing for miles
& the only thing that can't shine.
This one made me smile. I love the contrast of beauty, the championing of the winter beauty of the north. Very compelling, and delightful to read. :)
'I know something that doesn't die can't be beautiful'. In the backdrop of the weather and the overall quality of life in and around California, USA, the poet reflects his idea about what ails the area and presents his thoughts and a philosophy. Thanks.
Wonderful poem about love to the Northern regions that are native and more dear to you than any sunny places.
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5/6/2024 5:48:15 AM # 1.0.0.1119
The only thing that can't shine! Thanks for sharing this poem with us.