The Broken Sandal by Denise Levertov

MARGINALIA • SKIP TO THE POEM

1.
Arrived at the here and now, again.

2.
The new year breeds a new batch of questions. All longing to be answered, though not all meant to have one that will be easy to accept nor understand. Yet they are there, nevertheless, waiting to be asked.

The Broken Sandal
Denise Levertov

Dreamed the thong of my sandal broke.
Nothing to hold it to my foot.
How shall I walk?
                Barefoot?
The sharp stones, the dirt. I would
hobble.
And–
Where was I going?
Where was I going I can’t
go to now, unless hurting?
Where am I standing, if I’m
to stand still now?

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This poem appeared in Poems 1968-1972 by Denise Levertov, published by New Directions, 1987. Shared here with profound gratitude.

Read more works by Denise Levertov • Find books by this poet • Or view my library

Explore poems in pursuit of: questions • our place in the universe • journeys • Or browse the index

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To the Reader by Denise Levertov Talking to Grief by Denise Levertov A Woman Alone by Denise Levertov The Mutes by Denise Levertov Living by Denise Levertov