Conversations in a Library

Today's poem contains thoughts about a conversation I had at the library today.

Hearing that books will die
is distressing for one who loves them,
but is a distinct possibility
in a few generations.

There is no cause for worry
for the book is only a vessel
for the stories it contains
and those will live forever.

Our stories are comfort
and history and justice;
stories live in our memories,
our hearts and our souls.

Stories tell more about us than
we would like, and can be twisted toward
our own ends. Stories are dangerous
and necessary to our survival.

The book is a vessel
for our lies and our truths.
It is up to us to listen
and know the difference.

April 6, 2009