Yes. I think you’re right about that. Nice insight, btw. The stages we have
named in our evolution probably do represent our desire for stasis in
what is really a continually liminal existence. Certainly, the problems for
taxonomists are well illustrated by what happens when new technologies
come online. Look at what’s happening now with genetic evidence from
fossil remains, for example. It’s a job where the motto has to be: Based on
what we know now, this is where you fit in life’s network. Talk about
contextual. This is a long way around to answer your question about
facing mortal threats and kindness. I don’t think there’s one answer.
It depends so much on what power you have in the situation. On your
context.
Poem, in its entirety, is available in the printed version of the current issue.
Bio:
Carol Shillibeer’s poems have appeared in many print and online publications, including Contemporary Verse 2, ditch, Drunk Monkeys, filling Station, FreeFall, the Malahat Review, Modern Poetry Quarterly Review, Posit, Ricepaper, Room, and the South Shore Review. She has received nominations for both Pushcart and Best of the Net prizes. She is currently working on The Calamitous House of Kindness, a collection of poems recounting conversations with five women from history.