Goal of Living

As with Howard Nemerov, e.e. cummings is a treasured discovery of mine. I’ve chosen the following poem for my post today because the lines “in time of daffodils(who know/ the goal of living is to grow)” echo the sentiments in my last entry.

Most of e. e. cummings’ poems are puzzle-like. He uses words and syntax in unusual and interesting ways that sometimes twist the brain in such a way that some cool “aha” moments happen.

As you read this poem, instead of worrying about understanding, just roll with it. Enjoy the music. See if a line or two grab you. I am particularly taken with the first two lines of the last stanza in this poem.

in time of daffodils(who know
the goal of living is to grow)
forgetting why,remember how

in time of lilacs who proclaim
the aim of waking is to dream,
remember so(forgetting seem)

in time of roses(who amaze
our now and here with paradise)
forgetting if,remember yes

in time of all sweet things beyond
whatever mind may comprehend,
remember seek(forgetting find)

and in a mystery to be
(when time from time shall set us free)
forgetting me,remember me


(e. e. cummings 1894-1962)