There is one hidden reference to the BBC series Sherlock in this poem. Write in down in the comments section if you know what it is.
I used a change of rhythm in Alternative Route. It can be frowned upon (by poetry writing manuals, if they could frown). However, in this case I feel it’s justified. The regular structure of the first part of the poem reflects the orderly exercise it’s about – meditation – and the calm breath that underlies it.
The second part of the poem is about things that take you off-track, like Sherlock. The flow of the poem becomes more free and sometimes there are bumps on the way. Or maybe it is not so much off track as an alternative route to something.
Rene Sens‘ musical track called “Sketchy Monk” for this poem is truly groovy, with hypnotic percussion and mesmerising flute inviting you into the world of mind – or heart, if you prefer.
Oxana Poberejnaia 