open sky :: SAMVAAD/13th July
- Aparna Pathak
- Jul 13
- 1 min read
hosts : Sanjuktaa Asopa & Aparna Pathak
school shooting
a permanent tooth
halfway in
-David Oates
(prune juice journal of senryu and related forms, Issue 45)
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This is a painful poem to read. The image of the child's tooth to make the point here is brilliant and unforgettable. Deep bow to the poet ....
Powerful , topical and heart-breaking at the same time! I confess I didn't understand the last two lines fully at the beginning, but Alan Summers' wonderful commentary brought more clarity. Thank you David Oates for letting us share it.
Thanks to all of you for your responses.
Loved this poem and excellent way of bringing to light the issues around us!
What a poignant, powerful poem!
It's always powerful to see an unusual pairing of images that don't explain or enlarge upon each other.
school shooting
a permanent tooth
halfway in
When a permanent tooth grows in halfway before the baby tooth falls out, it's often called "shark teeth" or ectopic eruption. This is a common occurrence, particularly with lower front teeth between ages 5 and 7. Generally, the baby tooth will eventually loosen and fall out on its own, allowing the permanent tooth to move into its proper position. However, if the baby tooth doesn't loosen and the permanent tooth is more than halfway erupted, it's recommended to consult with a dentist.
The horrible irony is that perhaps a child was murdered at school and…