Not to be contrary, but I’ve been thinking about opposites, more opposites, and a few differences.
There is something so funny and childlike to the notion that everything has an opposite.
And then there’s the fact that when you fill a book with said opposites, it’s really about connections.
How beautifully twisted is that??
In writing this lovely little book, Richard Wilbur went from being "an esteemed poet of humor and wisdom" to "an esteemed poet of humor and wisdom I’d really like to have dinner with."
Or rather, "… I’d really like to have numerous dinners with."
Seriously.
I want someone with this kind of whimsy in the bunker with me if it comes to that.
Run out and get this little morsel if you don’t already have it.
And in the meantime, a taste or two:
#22
A spell is something you are under
When put to sleep, or filled with wonder
The opposite of spell, I guess,
Is normal waking consciousness,
In which you’re not enthralled or sleepy,
And things are only fairly creepy.
#8
What is the opposite of riot?
It’s lots of people keeping quiet.
#19
Because what’s present doesn’t last,
The opposite of it is past.
Or if you choose to look ahead,
Future’s the opposite instead.
Or look around to see what’s here,
And absent things will not appear.
There’s one more opposite of present
That’s really almost too unpleasant:
It is when someone takes away
Something with which you like to play.
This book looks like a whole lot of fun, which is the opposite of getting ready for and going to work today!
I love #19! When you have dinner with him, please invite me. 🙂
The cover looks ever so much older than the age of the actual book. I will have to find a copy of it – these poems are too charming to pass up!
I’m fond of #8. And now I’m thinking of Quiet Riot, the heavy metal band. :0 But isn’t it true, how thousands of quiet people could be a riot? In a good way?
P.S. The book I’m reading for book club, The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks, is filled with word play opposites. Gruntled and disgruntled. Pugn and impugn. It’s great.
Opposites
Elaine M.
Liz,
I guess great minds think alike. I’ve been working on a post about “Opposties, More Opposites, and a Few Differences.” I love the book–it’s so much fun to read. I really wish there was more light verse like this being written for adults today.
I’d love to see this, too. Thanks for the tip.
Jules
7-Imp
Goodness! You’re right. Have to go get myself a copy of this.
The opposite of riot is Quaker Meeting for Worship. At Yearly Meeting it can be hundreds sitting together quietly in meditation. Awesome.
My fav here is #19. I’ll be thinking of opposites all day. Thanks!
Oooh, I love this. I love him. I’ve been hopelessly devoted to him ever since I first read “The Writer.” Jama, move over … I’m stealing your place at that dinner table.