Minutiae - By: Christopher Gerale

No turn in hearts or glances shared,

no whisper in the moonlit air—

a skeptic's soul, untouched, declared,

by neither passion nor tender stare.

This is the end, I sense, of dreaming,

the end of tales, both false and true,

in love's vast landscape, gleaming,

I tighten my standards, clear and true.

Pewter and salt on emotions' surf,

the soft, guarded heart as dull as clay,

in the skeptic's quest, not mere turf,

I try more depth, in love's display.

Please give a detailed explanation about the meaning and main idea of this poem.

The poem sprang from my contemplation of love and skepticism. It explores the emotional weight of disillusionment in romantic pursuits and ponders the hollow echoes of shallow encounters and guarded affections. There lies a profound ache, a yearning for the soul-deep resonance that eludes my grasp, yet amidst the shadows of doubt, a flicker of hope persists. Crafted in free verse, the poem underwent revisions to sharpen its essence that reflects on the intricate dance of love and the ceaseless pursuit of authentic connection amidst the shadows of skepticism and disillusionment. This poem of mine becomes a testament to the human spirit's eternal quest for authentic connection in a world awash with illusions and uncertainties.

Please explain your writing and thought process regarding this poem.

In my ruminations on love's labyrinth, I plunge into the intricate dance of human bonds—tinged with the shades of skepticism and disillusionment. Through the prism of my experiences, I navigate the barren landscapes of fleeting connections, tracing the contours of unrequited passions and shallow encounters. Each word and image carefully chosen, I sought to evoke raw emotions and articulate the yearning for genuine intimacy amid prevailing doubts while contemplating about my emotional endeavor.

Why did you choose to write this poem?

I wrote the poem to unleash my emotional dilemma during this part of my life. With each stroke of introspection reflects longing and guardedness that are painting the struggle between the fervent desire for love's embrace and the cold truth of its absence.

Do you have any tips or anything to share with the youth writers who may be reading this?

For young writers embarking on their creative journeys, embracing the power of writing as a tool for self-discovery and understanding is paramount. Allow your pen to flow freely to unearth the depths of your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Write with honesty and vulnerability, hence, delving into the complexities of your inner world and the nuances of your thoughts and feelings. Moreover, explore a myriad of writing styles and forms, from poetry to prose, experimenting with different techniques to find your unique voice. Immerse yourself in literature, drawing inspiration from the diverse array of voices and perspectives found within its pages, its books, and its libraries. Seek feedback and connection with fellow writers and allow insights and encouragement to fuel your growth. Above all, remember that writing is a journey of exploration and self-expression, a journey that holds the potential to illuminate the depths of your soul and the world around you.