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Sean Johnson's avatar

Yes, and yes! I realized that if I started talking about the title it would require a full second episode!

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Amy Holder's avatar

I love the title of this poem too. It definitely refers to the woman but might also refer to the sugar, I think.

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Joe Hobson's avatar

The woman may have, by kneeling down, coming closer to the earth, briefly recognized her mortality. The sweetness of life in the present. A stopping point, unplanned, to take a moment to unclasp from her hurrying. A sort of prayer of presence.

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Michelle Shelfer's avatar

The painting that came to mind for me was the famous Bouguereau “The Broken Pitcher.” It speaks of shame, poverty, but for the poet her sweet pathos is worth savoring every grain.

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Brian Culhane's avatar

Excellent discussion.

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Anne's avatar

This poem is one that is just resignating with me right now! Since you've read it on here, I have been searching for a print out - or a pdf that has it written in its true form. Where can I find it? Thank you for all of your commentary on this poem - it quickly has become one of my all time favorites.

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