“Kintsugi” published at MasticadoresIndia

On By Mike U.In Poetry

I’m pleased to announce that my poem “Kintsugi” has been published at MasticadoresIndia. Many thanks to Terveen Gill and her staff for their kindness and support in publishing my poem. Terveen is peerless in her encouragement and inspiration, and I’m humbled and delighted to have my poetry included at MasticadoresIndia. Thanks so much, Terveen!

“Kintsugi”

“In the winter hour
Of my broken soul
This fragile vase cannot contain
My essence

It sits cracked
On the cornerstone of my hut
Catching melting snow
From which my heart drinks…”

I’d be grateful if you would check out the rest of my poem by following this link. Also, be sure to follow/subscribe to MasticadoresIndia—it’s a wonderful place for those who love writing.

60 thoughts on ““Kintsugi” published at MasticadoresIndia”

    1. Thank you so much. Indeed, sadness permeates this piece, as it does much of my work (except for my photography, which was my conduit for joyful, peaceful contemplation). I write to settle my thoughts and try to put order to my chaotic world, so most of my poetry (and years ago, my prose) is melancholy. I enjoy it, though, because it’s cathartic and it reminds me that I’m still alive, if that makes any sense. I’m still able to feel something, even if that something is mostly sorrow. Anyway, your kindness means a lot to me, and I’m glad for your support. 🙂

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    2. Ahh…photography… This is a bitter-sweet thing for me, to be honest. It’s been years since I was involved in photography. I wasn’t able to sustain it as a hobby (too expensive) and couldn’t find a market for my work, so I ended up putting it on the shelf “just for a while,” I said to myself. Then life got in the way, and part of that included health problems. I have numbness from my knees down in both legs (a weird symptom I developed–among others–during EMDR therapy for PTSD four years ago). I can still walk but it’s difficult at times due to dizziness, and I can’t walk too far. I haven’t been able to drive for about three and a half years now due to this issue. So, I’m unable to get out in nature, unable to photograph nature, and I can’t tell you how frustrating this is for me. I think it’s a big reason I write nature poetry and post my old photos here. It’s a way–my only way–to connect with nature anymore. I don’t know what to do to fix it, and neither do the specialists. I never imagined I’d be like this at my age (58). Anyway, I miss photography. A lot. So, yes, it’s bitter-sweet to post my images, but I love sharing them. I’m glad you like them. 🙂

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      1. I’m sorry to hear this. 58 is WAY too young to be dealing with such miserable limitations! I spent a little time reading up on EMDR today and indeed, the articles mentioned dizziness. They said side effects were temporary, but they also said the treatment’s side effects have not been thoroughly studied, yet. I’ll be praying things ultimately prove temporary (or something even better), but would you meanwhile be eligible for an altered vehicle that can be driven/braked by hand? Or would dizziness prevent that? I’m not sure (nor am I asking!) how you get your groceries, but could you also order flowers to photograph — maybe set up a bit of a studio and play with light and macro, etc? And maybe a darkroom? You’re so creative — but honestly, I don’t even know if you’d enjoy that, and I’m sure you’ve already brainstormed for ideas to expand your experience with nature again (but I’m me, so I had to mention it). 🙏

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    3. My sincere apologies for the late reply. I’ve researched a bit into hand controls for vehicles but since my truck has a manual transmission, it would be a lot more tricky (and expensive) to rig it with hand controls. I’m not in the position to afford a different vehicle, alas, so I’m sort of stuck. I’ve also considered your idea of bringing objects into my apartment to photograph. I mean, in the past, I set up a makeshift studio at a previous residence and used available light from a window to photograph flowers indoors. It’s certainly doable, and I’m keeping my eyes open for possible subjects to photograph. I do have a digital SLR I got years ago (and haven’t used–long story) so the pesky expense of using film wouldn’t be an issue. I’m not in a good position financially to spend even a modest amount on anything at the moment, so I’m in limbo, sort of. And thank you for your prayers–truly means a lot to me. I hope things improve. I don’t want to be stuck like this forever. 🙂

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    1. Thank you, Terveen. I so appreciate your encouragement–it resonates with such hope and goodness. It’s folks like you who make writing (and any creative pursuit) such a fulfilling and worthwhile endeavor. I’m so glad you liked this piece, and I’m grateful for your support. Also, I made a batch of chocolate chip cookies! *offers a cookie* 🙂

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    1. Thanks, Diana. I’ve been away too long, that’s for sure. Here’s hoping I can stick around a bit longer and offer up some new material. I love writing, I love the thought of writing, I love talking about writing…but the act of writing is so difficult for me sometimes. Emotional fatigue, writer’s block, stress, anxiety, whatever it may be….it’s frustrating. Depression has a nasty way of making off with all my pencils and paper, leaving me unable to create anything. I don’t feel as though I’m done yet, however. As long as I can pull air into my lungs, I have an opportunity to find some words to play with, you know? Thanks for your always kind support. I truly appreciate it. 🙂

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    1. Thank you, Saima, for your kind words. I’m glad this poem appealed to you. I’m doing okay, I suppose (I never really know how to answer that question 😀 ). As well as can be expected, not to put too fine a point on it! 🙂 Stressing about stuff (HUGE, consequential elections on November 8 which will have a massive impact on my life if the bad guys win). Too many worries (and not enough pizza). 😀 Anyway, I hope you’re doing well, my friend. I need to write more so I can enjoy reading your wonderful comments. Sounds like a good plan, eh? 🙂 I appreciate your support and encouragement, Saima. Thanks so much. 🙂

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      1. No problem, Mike.. A genuine, honest reply is much better and healthy. I appreciate it. May everything turns out in your favour. Yes, we really want to read your beautiful poetry and the wisdom you share with us. So keep writing👍🙂 I am doing okay, thanks🙂

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    1. Many thanks, dear friend Cindy. So glad this one appealed to you. I suppose it’s my prayer for healing. I wanted to use austere Japanese imagery in the poem to set the scene and present the sense of abject loneliness and sorrow (I have such respect and admiration for Asian art and culture and it’s my way of paying tribute). So, the imagery of the snow dripping off the hut’s roof into the broken vase, and the abandoned mountain path seemed fitting. The concept of Kintsugi is fascinating. I’ve been trying to repair the broken shards of my life for a long time now. Not sure if the project will ever be complete, and it’s a messy endeavor, but who knows? It’s brought me to WordPress and allowed me to become friends with wonderful people like you and many others. Thanks for your constant support and kindness, Cindy. Goodness, it means a lot to me. 🙂

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      1. It’s beautiful imagery and the picture most fitting. I too respect and admire Asian art!! Life’s journey is mysterious and we just take it day by day with intention, hope and love. It’s the best any of us can do.
        Our friendships are a gift to me here too as are you. You’re so welcome and thank you for yours-:)💕❤️💕

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    1. Thanks so much, Kirsten. I feel blessed to have your support and encouragement. I’m glad you liked this one. There’s a constant sense of hope and positivity in your comments, and it’s like a balm for the soul. I truly appreciate it. Thanks for being here, my friend. 🙂

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    1. Thanks, David. I left a longer reply over at MasticadoresIndia, but just wanted to thank you again for all the kindness and support you’ve shown me along the way. It truly means so much to me. Just wanted you to know… *tips cap* 🙂

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    1. Thanks so much, Peggy. You always offer such kind and supportive comments. I truly appreciate all you do. Reading your comments here makes my day brighter, as does reading your blog. Many thanks, my friend! 🙂

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    1. Thanks so much, Kelly. There’s something inherently pure about melting snow, isn’t there? I think it would sate just about any soul’s thirst. 🙂 I appreciate your kind comment, and want to say I enjoy your blog and look forward to reading more of your writing. 🙂

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  18. Kintsugi is fascinating itself, and you have wonderfully weaved that concept into this melancholically beautiful poem! The vivid imagery throughout is a proof of your brilliant poetic craftsmanship. Congratulations, Mike! I hope to read your book one day.😊

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    1. Thanks so much, Aaysid. You’re always so kind in your appraisals. A book is on my bucket list, for sure. What a thrill that would be! And I must say, I hope to read your poetry book someday, too. Have you ever pondered publishing a collection of your poetry in a book? Because I’d be first in line to purchase it if you did. Just sayin’. 🙂 Seriously, I hope you’ll consider a book of your poetry. Thanks again for such a nice comment. Much appreciated. 🙂

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