a reminder

Got this tattoo from Rachel at the Blue Buddha on the Burlington waterfront this afternoon. It's a 1979 poem called "Art" by Charles Bukowski. A mere seven words: As the spirit wanes the form appears. He wrote it with modern poetry (at the time) in mind. That poets who lose touch with their inspiration try and cover up the deficiency with all kinds of rules and structure. Bukowski's notion applies to any aspect of life, really. When you stop playing by your own rules, you start playing by someone else's. I've been needing this reminder lately. Now, it'll be impossible to ignore.

Thanks, Hank. Thanks, Rachel.