Burden of Being: an Existential Crisis Poem

Poetry
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The Weight of Self-Doubt

Dive into the depths of ‘Burden of Being’ written by American Poet, Eric Montgomery, an existential crisis poem that poignantly captures the crushing weight of self-doubt. With its intricate exploration of mental health struggles and existential crises, this poem vividly conveys the unsettling echoes of a mind in turmoil. It’s a thought-provoking journey perfect for lovers of poetry that delves into the profound and relatable.


Burden of Being: an Existential Crisis Poem

Paralysis of the pen,
the empty page mocking,
ink refusing to flow.
But it’s not the pen that’s stuck,
it’s my very existence.

My brain, a prison of thoughts,
tangled like old cassette tapes,
every reel a memory,
every memory a weight,
crushing, suffocating.

I am stuck in the quicksand of my mind,
each step a struggle,
each breath a labor.
The world outside moves in vibrant hues,
while I dwell in muted grays.

There’s a mountain of ‘what-ifs’ on my chest,
a storm of doubts in my soul,
an anchor of fear dragging me down,
into the depths of my own despair.

I see people living, laughing, loving,
their days painted with the colors of joy,
while I remain,
a spectator in the shadow,
silent and unseen.

How do I break free from this weight,
this burden of my own making?
How do I rise, breathe, and live,
when my mind is my greatest enemy?

I long for the lightness of being,
to cast off these chains of thought,
to step into the sun,
feel its warmth on my skin,
to live, truly live,
beyond the confines of my miserable mind.

But for now,
I am here,
trapped within,
seeking a way out,
seeking to live.

(c) Eric Montgomery, July 2024


Discussion Time

What are your thoughts on the existential crisis explored in ‘Burden of Being’? Did the poem resonate with you, or did it spark questions about the human experience?

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Keith
3 months ago

Love your words