Invisible Book

Poet's note: Invisible Book" by Gilbert Sordebabari is a thought-provoking poem that explores the concept of words, identity, and the transient nature of human existence. Through its concise yet evocative imagery, the poem presents a unique perspective on the power of words and actions, and their relationship to personal identity and the passage of time. The opening lines of the poem immediately establish the central metaphor of an "invisible book" residing within the tablet of one's heart. This metaphor suggests that a person's true essence, their individuality and identity, cannot be contained within physical objects such as stone tablets or paper pages. Instead, the poem asserts that the essence of one's being, their "word," exists within them, transcending material constraints. This concept encourages readers to reflect on the intangible aspects of their existence, beyond the physical realm. The poem further develops its exploration of identity through the juxtaposition of visibility and invisibility. It states that while the word is visible, referring to the spoken or written language, the person themselves is invisible. This distinction highlights the idea that words can only capture a fraction of one's being and experiences. True understanding and connection with others must go beyond mere words and delve into the realm of the invisible, encompassing emotions, thoughts, and actions that cannot be fully expressed through language alone. The poem introduces the concept of the self as both fire and smoke, emphasizing the ephemeral and transient nature of human existence. The fire represents the core essence of the individual, while the smoke signifies the words and actions emitted from that core. The image of the smoke suggests the impermanence and fleeting nature of communication, as smoke dissipates and disappears into thin air. By associating the self with fire and smoke, the poem suggests that one's true essence lies beyond the realm of physicality and extends into the intangible and ever-changing realm of emotions and actions. Furthermore, the poem touches upon the idea that human actions are a form of authorship, shaping the narrative of one's life. Time is portrayed as the record keeper, capturing every chapter of an individual's existence. This notion underscores the importance of one's choices and actions, as they leave a lasting imprint on the narrative of their life. The poem implies that one's actions, more than physical appearance or material possessions, define their legacy and contribute to the invisible book of their existence. Overall, "Invisible Book" by Gilbert Sordebabari invites readers to reflect on the complex nature of human identity, the limitations of language, and the significance of actions in shaping one's life story. Through its metaphorical language and introspective themes, the poem encourages a deeper understanding of the intangible aspects of being and highlights the impermanence of human existence in the face of the eternal passage of time.