The road is a special place. It reflects both constancy and meditative change: often for the better, though sometimes, for the worst. In this second collection of words, Canadian poet Daniel Viragh considers the twin processes of rebuilding and healing. His challenge to certain prevalent cultural norms seeks to re-establish balance, purpose and equanimity.
Most of the poems here are serious in tone. Many of them concern Jewish themes, the politics of belonging, making peace with one's family and friends, and interpersonal relationships. The tone is elegiac and refined; the message, conversely, quite direct. Take for example, "Footsteps" "there is only one place, where you began; / and only one other place, where you will crow. / Where we'll wonder, none may know: / we're all going, where we need to go." There's a rhythm and a definite sense of engagement, but it's not too over-the-top.
Or take for example, the ongoing theme of travel, and never belonging, present in the title poem, "At The End Of My Travels" "I came upon you, empty city: / I didn't even know your name. I knew your streets were coarse, but pretty; / your steeple had basked in red-hot flame."
The recurring motif of wandering is meant to appeal to those who never quite know, if they stand within the folds of society, or without. Look at the "The Road" "This road was here / before you were born; / it will stretch out its hand / even after you die. / This road will survive / the mightiest storm; / it will strengthen your gut / and make you cry." Certainly not for the faint-of-heart!
But if you can stomach the occasional hopelessness, this collection of verse is a gold mine. It shines. It propels you. It gives you comfort on your journey. One last quote, from "The Messiah Prayerbook" "Where we are going -- it's no place. / Rather, it's a time, a feeling, a space. / It's a presence, it's an embrace. / It's a commitment, it's some grace."
Isn't that just holy? Or maybe even sacred?
