True Direction
Where is it that I’m headed
paddling these waters?
Is there any direction?
Do I merely wander?
Although no simple answer,
it is a simple choice.
When I’m upon these waters
I hear my inner voice.
The quiet I encounter,
in spite of gay songbirds,
allows my thoughts to wander,
I have, by this time, learned.
Each time I raise my paddle
upon this placid stream,
I find my true direction
is closer than it seems.
This poem is my response to Meeting the Bar: Soliloquy, the prompt from Victoria at dVerse ~ Poets Pub, which is to write a soliloquy, giving a glimpse of inner thoughts and feelings, such as emotions, plans, and desires. I’ve tried to include some examples of poetic device as requested, by using rhyme or near-rhyme and loose meter.
Image: Ellicott Creek, Amherst New York
(click image for larger view in new tab)
rivrvlogr 
I can imagine you paddling and your thoughts wandering. This prompt is perfect for you and your kayak journeys.
That photo is stunning!
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Effective use of metaphor. I live near a river and the flow of water is such a source of self-reflection.
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Then paddle on my friend!
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I’m not sure at one point it happened, but I found myself mesmerized by your rhyming scheme. Something about loose rhymes and meter that suddenly makes me forget the words I read and instead settle deeply into the song of it all. I suppose it seemed appropriate to lose myself in this peaceful thoughtfulness. Splendid and tranquil, an idyllic poem indeed.
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Nice one!!!
Happy Thursday
Much❤love
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A wonderful poem of reflection Ken! I love your ending!
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You took me paddling and I helped. Couldn’t help it. The rhythm— and oh what rhythm, came naturally and there I was helping. Such beauty. Thanks for the fun.
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A placid stream seems to me like the perfect place for reflection, and for finding direction!
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Your use of meter and rhyme combined to create a truly splendid poem!
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I love this, Ken!
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Your soliloquy leaves me in a wonderful state of peace ….
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This is so beautiful, Ken. It says much about you … and it’s all good!
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Let’s hear it for almost-rhymes; subtle and effective. I’ve never kayaked, but you make it sound dreamy and wonderful.
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I love the idea of you being in that image, paddling quietly along, one with your environment.
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I love the thought in the final stanza of finding your direction paddling.
I know the feeling well
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