First to Bend Last to Break

By Scott Christian

Change is inevitable, but our reaction to that fact is a skill that can be mastered. Bending, for instance, when the world is a storm, or when something demands we concede or be destroyed--understanding how to adjust ourselves in such instances can safeguard our most cherished beliefs. The poems included in this book represent a life developing such ideas, where the consequences of occasional loss are repurposed for gain, and the means of physical, emotional, and spiritual adaptation are celebrated.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Scott Christian
• Release date: Sep 7, 2018

Book preview

a key for all doors

she wonders whether each moment—

each gilded gift or profane enticement—

is initiated by powers of both the righteous

and the wretched.

even in love she sees the possibility

of overindulgence

or vain pride.

even in hate she sees the possibility

of accomplishing wisdom

or temperance.

so much seems to hinge on free-will,

and perhaps that is the gift

meant to convince us most

of what’s precious in judgment.

growth spurt of a developing consciousness

the world, to her, is becoming a series of extensions

of the body, mind, and soul.

that is not to say that she entertains false