Resurrecting Poetry Friday: "24th September 1945"

It's been far too long since I was regular about Poetry Fridays on the blog. But something about the chill of autumn makes me poem-hungry. This weekend's weather forecast, in particular, looks just right for curling up on the couch with a blanket and a cup of tea (or maybe a glass of wine?) and losing myself in words....

Here's one I'd never run across until today. Doing a little research on the poet makes it all the more fascinating. Apparently he was a Turkish "romantic communist" who spend much of his life in prison. And knowing that, suddenly the underlying desolation of these words comes into a different, sharper focus! (Editor's aside: Setting. It can change everything!) 

And the sentiment--it seems simple at first, but then I can't seem to stop thinking about it. I wonder...what was the significance of the title's date--was it some big newsworthy event, or just a date of special, personal meaning? And did the poet ever get to say the words he wanted to say? And what happened when he did??

"24th September 1945"

 

by Nâzım Hikmet Ran

 

The most beautiful sea: has yet to be crossed.

The most beautiful child: has yet to be born.

Our most beautiful days: have yet to be lived;

and the best word that I wanted to say to you

is the word that I have not yet said.