The Art Of Disappearing Poem by Naomi Shihab Nye

The Art Of Disappearing

Rating: 3.6


When they say Don't I know you?
say no.

When they invite you to the party
remember what parties are like
before answering.
Someone telling you in a loud voice
they once wrote a poem.
Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.
Then reply.

If they say We should get together
say why?

It's not that you don't love them anymore.
You're trying to remember something
too important to forget.
Trees. The monastery bell at twilight.
Tell them you have a new project.
It will never be finished.

When someone recognizes you in a grocery store
nod briefly and become a cabbage.
When someone you haven't seen in ten years
appears at the door,
don't start singing him all your new songs.
You will never catch up.

Walk around feeling like a leaf.
Know you could tumble any second.
Then decide what to do with your time.

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Us 12 July 2021

This is so strange, I feel every words like they were mine 🥺 thank for saying what I couldn't

0 1 Reply
Us 12 July 2021

This is so strange

0 0 Reply
Andrew h 08 January 2019

it's a great poem, and I almost cried.10/10

1 2 Reply
Kayode Are 27 May 2018

Leaf, cabbage and sausage ball; fear of predator.

0 5 Reply
Dutendra Chamling 29 October 2015

...When someone you haven't seen in ten years appears at the door, don't start singing him all your new songs. You will never catch up... Wonderful ART

6 0 Reply
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Naomi Shihab Nye

Naomi Shihab Nye

St. Louis, Missouri
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