Words of Wisdom
One bit of wisdom that life has conferred
Is when to give somebody else the last word.
In Sight But Out of Mind
Believing I’d use it someday,
I put something in a good place,
And ever since that’s where it lay,
Three decades just taking up space.
Talk vs. Action
The more folks talk about
Some things they need to do,
The greater one might doubt
They’re ever going to.
Change Direction
Whenever, with a chosen tack he took,
He knows if his preferred proceeding leans
Away from what she’d like, he’ll get: “The Look”—
And husbands everywhere know what that means.
Russel Winick started writing poetry after ending a long legal career. He resides in Naperville, Illinois.
Very clever of you to notice these things, Russel. I always get a smile out of your words of wisdom. I especially see the truth in “ In Sight But Out of Mind”.
I always appreciate your kind words, Cynthia. Thank you!
Russel, your poems are always a must read. They’re that good. All so very spot-on. Regarding “In Sight…”, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen something put in a certain place “for the time being” or “for now”, only to remain, as you so aptly put it, for three decades … or more!
You and me both, Cheryl! Thank you so much for your very kind words.
These are wonderful examples of the short poems that were called “epigrammatic,” or “squibs.” They are short, sweet, crystal-clear, and usually have a slightly wry comic tone. They have to be perfect in meter, rhyme, grammar, and syntax (as these ones are) since readers are going to take them in with a brief glance and a sharp focus. No loose ends allowed!
Professor, your kind words are almost surreal for me to read. I am incredibly grateful for them. Thank you.
Re, the first ‘squib’. We call that marriage, Russel.
Thanks for the pearls. I enjoyed them.
Paul, I agree, and I’m glad that you enjoyed the poems. Thanks for letting me know.
As usual, Russel, you have poked us in the eye, and, as usual, we see the more clearly for it. Don’t give up your edge — it’s the precipice where good philosophy lives, and in a sense it is our essential lifeblood.
Thank you Sir, for your inspiring words. Rest assured of two things: the edge is a permanent fixture, and I’m most frequently poking myself in the eye.
Russel, I just love these witty little “squibs” – what a great word. Thank you, Joe! Your bitesize servings of poetic wisdom always make me smile, and often make me nod in agreement. I particularly like “Talk vs. Action” – I am guilty of this when it comes to cleaning the house. Your words have got me reaching for my duster.
Thank you Susan. I always appreciate your support. Everyone is guilty of procrastination in some way, myself included.
Russel, thinking of your “one bit of wisdom,” I realize I have a strategy for not needing the last word. When I’ve said what I honestly mean to say, and sincerely need to say, I’m done. I can peacefully listen. That is often most refreshing. Doesn’t entirely satisfy people itching for an argument, though. You are entirely correct about the wisdom of “when to give” the last word. And I notice your “somebody else” second line is slightly longer than the first!
That’s a good strategy, Margaret — I may just borrow it on occasion. Thanks!
Unfortunately for me, all of these hit home. Apparently, I remain a work in progress. Great and entertaining wisdom across the board.
Thanks Warren — you and me both. Each time I get the bright idea that my work is about done, I seem to get slapped back to somewhere closer to the beginning! I appreciate your feedback
These are gems of observation, Russel. As you probably know, I don’t exactly have a wife — and yet I still get “The Look.” I think it’s probably universal among all couples. Knowing all too well what it bodes, I sigh, put on a smile and shift plans accordingly.
Yes Brian, that’s about all we can do. Thanks for your feedback — much appreciated!
These are witty little gems. “Words of Wisdom” should be distributed to every litigator. As a husband, reading “Change Direction” made me laugh out loud. The remaining two were readily relatable, as well.
Thank you Adam. Yes, “Words of Wisdom” came partly from my litigation experience. I’m glad that each poem was relatable. One of the key questions I ask myself before submitting anything is “is this poem a ‘me thing’ or more universal than that?” Your feedback is much appreciated.
I loved all of these, Mr. Winick! Thank you for the humanity in a nutshell 101 course.
Thank you Marguerite. I’m very flattered that you view my poetry that way.