by Emma Philippas (directed by Dennis Doherty)
“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards”
– Søren Kierkegaard
Blood is an intimate reflection on aging, loss of love and life, all with poetry as the mirror. It is an exploration of myself now at an age when I am regarded as an adult, aware now more than ever of the changing seasons.
In Greek, the word for blood is aíma ‘αίμα,’ pronounced just like my first name, Emma. I titled the thesis Blood for that reason, as well as the fact that the collection not only explores the self, but family ties, and my own Greek and Irish origins as well. The pieces within this collection are written in various poetic forms. Often seemingly simple to the naked eye, each poem in Blood begs the reader to look a bit closer.
Blood is as personal as its namesake, but invites you, my reader, to reflect on yourself and the season you are in as well.
At The New House
Good to go outside, Out of house and head, Writer. Sit on this Damp earth: uncanny.
Outside house and head, Hear the birds singing Damp earth’s uncanny, Familiar song.
Think of child’s spring, [A] backyard all the same, House and head different;
Nothing can Never change.
The Interval
There are geese out back
In the yard behind our house.
In the sunshine last week They made sense,
Their voices like some harbinger Of spring.
Today white snow coats Their feathers and wings
As they seek shelter Under the willow,
Its branches like some ceiling Fit to challenge
An incessant winter.