Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Kelly. So glad you connected with the write my friend. I agree with you, coming from a lyrical background, I always love a good line. But the beginning and ending are very important indeed. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Fia. So glad you connected with the write my friend. I wrote this before joining DU. I love that line as well. It was screaming to be let out. Appreciate you, cuz.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Mark. So glad you connected with the write my friend. It was an ass kicker, I penned this during a time of self-therapy and reflection. I’ve always cared, always executing is another story. This was a cool discovery, because I had forgotten about it. lol. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Adel. So glad you connected with the write my friend. It’s a relatable story indeed. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Brenda. So glad you connected with the write my friend. It was a very reflective time in my life to say the least. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Neville. So glad you connected with the write my friend. Sometimes you gotta say it loud and proud. Honored to receive the dubble. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Roma. So glad you connected with the write my friend. Those final lines are my favorite as well. It was penned in a time of self-reflection, and getting to really know myself. Without my addiction clouding my vision. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Willow. So glad you connected with the write my friend. Spot on in your analysis as always, it did need to breathe a little. It was simmering on the stove in the word kitchen. lol. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Wally. So glad you connected with the write my friend. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words, Keith. So glad you connected with the write my friend. Appreciate you.

Damian

Thanks so much, Damian! I’m glad you enjoyed the joyride. I think all existential crises should come with great mileage and a good soundtrack. I appreciate you saying it belongs in the book. I was hoping that the imagery felt visceral, so knowing you felt like you were “riding shotgun” means the world. If an automotive enthusiast approves of the engine knock, I know I did my job! Appreciate you reading.

Thank you Adelphina! I love your take on the “come what may” determination. You captured the bright side of the empty space perfectly: not knowing is indeed scary, but it’s the very thing that makes room for those “wonderful surprises that crash into you.” That element of being open to things we never saw coming — that’s the true reward of keeping the existential engine running. I’m so glad you enjoyed the road trip!

Styxian, Thank you so much! I’m thrilled to hear the poem carried you along steadily. That feeling of taking the reader on the journey is exactly what I aim for. I appreciate the kind words!

Hello Crimsin, Hello! That’s a beautiful, fiery way to read the poem. You perfectly captured that underlying tension: the engine of life (‘”the love machine”) keeps running despite the forces that want to “run us over” or the “speed demon” trying to stall us. The emptiness without the fight isn’t worth the peace. I love that you’re “up for the fight”– that’s the true existential fuel! Thank you for the passionate read.

Rob, Thank you. This poem was just random thoughts, while I was on a long drive too. I appreciate you calling it a “philosophical road trip.”

You perfectly captured that delicate balance: the destination gives the journey shape, but as you said, the journey itself is the only thing that truly matters. I hope you enjoyed the ride.

Thank you! I’ve been having this recurring dream of an amethyst sea, and reflecting on it gives me such inner peace. Now I even own many amethyst gemstones. Adelphina, your words about it being soothing really resonate. I love swimming just as the sun is setting.

It’s such an ethereal experience. The water feels as warm as the sunset, and the sky’s colors are breathtaking. Perhaps that’s why I dream of this sea, and I’m happy I was able to capture this experience in Amethyst Sea. I’m so glad it came across that way!