Writing Workshop 7/22/25 -The Art of Disappearing, Naomi Shihab Nye

The Art of Disappearing, Naomi Shihab Nye

When they say Don’t I know you?
say no.
When they invite you to the party
remember what parties are like
before answering.
Someone is telling you in a loud voice
they once wrote a poem.
Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.
Then reply.
If they say We should get together
say why?
It’s not that you don’t love them anymore.
You’re trying to remember something
too important to forget.
Trees. The monastery bell at twilight.
Tell them you have a new project.
It will never be finished.
When someone recognizes you in a grocery store
nod briefly and become a cabbage.
When someone you haven’t seen in ten years
appears at the door,
don’t start singing him all your new songs.
You will never catch up.
Walk around feeling like a leaf.
Know you could tumble any second.
Then decide what to do with your time.

People always say time is precious but there's different meanings there.  In the poem, It's about avoiding people for more time or using your time only for who you want because you can "tumble at any second"  I agree with the sentiment of tumbling at any second.  I do not believe in passing by opportunities from other people to prepare for the tumble.  You never know what other people can offer.  Knowledge, talents, gifts, someone to be there when you tumble.  

"Know you can tumble any second

Then decide what to do with your time"

It's true

You can tumble 

At any time. 

But why 

Reject the people 

Who could be 

Your greatest champions 

When you fall?  

You never know

What people can do,

The things the offer,

Or who they are

Unless you give them 

A chance to show you.  

Don't disappear

You may be

Begging to be seen 

Someday

But everyone will be

Gone. 

Because you decided 

To make art  

Of building walls, 

Of hiding,

Of not trying people on for size. 

Put down the paintbrush.

Start something new

Before it is too late.