The Art of Disappearing

Dear Everyone:

I am sharing a poem with you titled
"The Art of Disappearing" by
poet and songwriter Naomi Shihab Nye.
The poem addresses one woman's deep
ambivalence around being social and
a rejection of the attention fame brings.
She is passionately involved in her
own life.

The author is a well-recognized award-winning
poet. She was born to a Palestinian father
and American mother and her work sometimes
addresses her heritage. She currently resides
in San Antonio, Texas.

The poem is from an anthology titled
"Words Under the Words (1995).

I hope you enjoy the sheer talent
of this poem.


The Art of Disappearing

When they say Don't I know you?
say no.

When they invite you to the party
remember what parties are like
before answering.
Someone telling you in a loud voice
they once wrote a poem.
Greasy sausage balls on a paper plate.
Then reply.

If they say We should get together
say why?

It's not that you don't love them anymore.
You're trying to remember something
too important to forget.
Trees. The monastery bell at twilight.
Tell them you have a new project.
It will never be finished.

When someone recognizes you in a grocery store
nod briefly and become a cabbage.
When someone you haven't seen in ten years
appears at the door,
don't start singing him all your new songs.
You will never catch up.

Walk around feeling like a leaf.
Know you could tumble any second.
Then decide what to do with your time.