The Law of Faces
Posted by matt on 30 May 2008
Identi-kit Portrait: Composite #9 by Randi Trinka, 1984
© All rights reserved
THE LAW OF FACES
In the commerce of faces,
one law: the image fades
inward from its edges.
The end of the image
is eyes.
Willy-nilly strangers
begin, they transact a gaze
and are bound by its terms,
the border between them
negotiates down
to the thinnest filament
that would withstand
trespass. The end
is eyes.
Let us begin again.
Our terms already set,
let us now together tend
to the one task left.
Invent me.
–M. Salomon
Rosemary Nissen-Wade said
It’s good – and rare – to read a poem about a painting that is the equal of the painting.
matt said
Rosemary, thanks very much for your comments. So, is there some characteristic of paintings (or poems) that might work to make this so, in general? M
Scotti said
It is wonderful to read your own works here! This certainly is an ‘image-instigated’ poem. In my view, the poem not only compliments the image but moves it forward. Your words leave open the door to a future and a hope for which I do not sense from the image itself.
matt said
As always, Scotti, I really appreciate your thoughtful and perceptive comments. You are absolutely correct–this poem was literally a response to Randi Trinka’s painting (about which I knew everything but her title for it). Randi also did a painting on another poem of mine which I’ll post here later in the year (it’s about autumn). Thanks again for visiting and sharing your insights! m
marulis said
I’d sure like to say hello to the Artist, Randi Trinka. Thanks