Mission by A.R. Ammons
Mission
A.R. AmmonsThe wind went over
me
saying
Why are you so distressedOh I said I
can’t seem to make
anything
round enough to lastBut why
the wind
said
should you be so distressedas if anything here belonged to you
as if anything here were your concern
MARGINALIA
1.
I wonder if the wind holds ancient wisdom. I wonder what it says about the human struggle against the temporal—the desire to make something enduring in a world that is in a constant state of flux—when its very being embodies that which is fleeting. Have you ever wanted to make something last and then suddenly come to an understanding of your own limitations against the forces of change?
2.
What in life is truly mine? I confront myself and wrestle with the fact that things will end, that there might be a life without all of this. Do I embrace it, or do I resist? This is a challenging proposition that strips away the ego, the illusion of control and human pretensions—I am but a small and inconsequential part of the vast universe.
3.
What I want to last: the way you look at me. The way you make me laugh and laugh. And kisses, always kisses.
4.
Have you ever been afraid of your own insignificance. In the face of the sobering reality of our existence, how does one find meaning? Has it all been a fruitless pursuit?
5.
What I can say is mine, despite the tension between the ephemeral and the eternal: my incessant longing for your hand on the small of my back. Moments when I watch the way light moves on your face. How you hold my name in your mouth.
6.
Meanwhile, time marches on. Transience is a gift—a radical reimagining of my relationship with the world, of my understanding of life and my place within it. If things aren’t meant to last then let me ask for more kisses.
endnotes
This poem appeared in POETRY, Volume 110 Number 3, published by The Poetry Foundation, 1967. Shared here with profound gratitude.
Read more works by A.R. Ammons • Find books by this poet • Or view my library
Explore poems in pursuit of: existence • questions • time • Or browse the index
Dear Reader
This little corner of the world is my passion project since 2005. My commitment is that it will always remain free to all. If this place holds meaning for you, would you consider supporting it? This can be in the form of a cup of coffee (+ other ways).
Note that Read A Little Poetry may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through any links on this site. It is at no additional cost to you and helps in the upkeep of this space.
Thank you for being here all these years—and into the future—as I hold poets to the light.
Wanjiku Boro
This too shall pass
T.
Indeed, the beauty of that phrase lies in its universal truth. Whether we’re facing moments of joy or sorrow, everything is temporary. The transience of life often inspires the most profound poetry. Thank you for reminding us of this wisdom.
T.
Heidi-Marie
Soul-searching and insightful 👌
T.
I’m glad you found the poem to be insightful and thought-provoking. Poetry is often a mirror into our souls, and it’s always rewarding when it sparks introspection. Thank you for your comment, and keep exploring the world of poetry with us!
T.
Amrita Skye Blaine
Beautiful and attentive marginalia. Thank you!
T.
Thank you for stopping by and reading.
T.