A Blackout poem from Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra
You say ‘I’—proud.
Yet, behind your thoughts,
unknown sage—
called Self.
More reason in your body
than wisdom.
-
Contextual Reflection:
The lines are drawn from Friedrich Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra, a philosophical work that delves into the concept of self-empowerment, the rejection of conventional moralities, and the embrace of personal truth. In this blackout poem, I focused on Nietzsche’s ideas about the self—the tension between the ego (“I”) and the deeper, more instinctual part of our being (“Self”). This poem speaks to the journey of self-discovery, wherein we often confront the surface-level identity we project to the world and uncover something far deeper and more complex within. The form allowed me to highlight the contrast between the conscious self (“I”) and the hidden wisdom within our bodies, capturing a key element of Nietzsche’s philosophy. -
Structural Insight:
The poem’s fragmented structure mirrors Nietzsche’s theme of disjointed, conflicting identities. The use of short, impactful lines enhances the tension between the “I”—the outward persona—and the “Self,” the deeper, unspoken truth beneath the surface. The poem flows almost like a moment of revelation, where one is confronted with the realization that wisdom does not reside in the ego but in a deeper, more primal part of the self. This shift reflects a journey from self-pride to self-awareness. -
Symbolism & Imagery:
The imagery of the “unknown sage” and “Self” conveys the mysterious and often inaccessible wisdom that lies within us. The “body” in this poem becomes symbolic of the mind’s connection to the physical world—a place of untapped knowledge and strength that isn’t always immediately understood by the intellect. The “more reason in your body than wisdom” challenges the idea that intellect alone holds all the answers, suggesting that true wisdom comes from understanding the body, instincts, and unconscious wisdom within us. -
Personal Journey:
This poem resonates with my own exploration of self-discovery and the tensions between mind and body. For much of my life, I’ve focused on mental and intellectual pursuits, but over time, I’ve come to understand that deeper knowledge exists within the physical self—whether in intuition, emotion, or subconscious understanding. Nietzsche’s philosophy challenges me to embrace that hidden wisdom and to recognize the full spectrum of who I am. -
Reader Engagement:
Have you ever felt a disconnect between the person you project and the deeper part of yourself? In moments of self-reflection, what wisdom have you uncovered that goes beyond what your mind tells you? How does the body hold knowledge that the mind cannot articulate?
April is National Poetry Writing Month (NaPoWriMo), a time when poets around the world challenge themselves to write a poem every day. It’s a celebration of creativity, discipline, and the power of words. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or just beginning your journey, NaPoWriMo is an opportunity to explore new forms, themes, and voices. I invite you to not only follow along with my own poetry journey this month but also to explore the work of other poets participating in the challenge. Visit the NaPoWriMo participant sites to discover a diverse range of poetic voices and be inspired by the community of writers engaging in this creative endeavor.
Read more poems from National Poetry Month #NaPoWriMo