Twenty-Two to me meant being able to adapt, being versatile and that would result to great things. “To bend and be straight;” “Yield and overcome;” “Wear Out and be new”. I feel that you have to know or embrace certain things in order to achieve the outcome you desire. If you know when to yield and play the field by taking it easy and observing you’ll eventually notice the weak point and know when to overcome. I feel like the second stanza explains what you gain out of the first, what it creates if you can succeed. From my perspective being humble and respect/self-respect seems to be a theme in the second stanza. “Not putting on a display, They shine forth.” “Not Boasting,They receive recognition.” I feel that displays how humble and respect creates greatness without the need to step on anyones toes or putting anyone else down. All good things gravitate towards you and it influences everyone else around you. If you carry yourself with these qualities, greatness will come.
Twenty Two
February 2, 2017 Written by MEZBAH ONU | 2 Comments
Categories: Uncategorized
2 responses so far ↓
m.khan10 // Feb 2nd 2017 at 2:23 pm
This was a very well thought out response. I agree with a lot of you said. I think the word “versatile” is a perfect way to describe what Tao was trying to convey in his message. Tao is definitely emphasizing versatility as a key to success. I also agree that respect for yourself and others was the theme for the second stanza. Great job.
j.guzman3 // Feb 2nd 2017 at 2:57 pm
I’ve just finished reading the “Ten” poem and its the theme it seemed to touch on was Dichotomy. Dichotomy the contrast between two things that are represented as entirely unalike; this can be both good and be bad at the same time but if you find the middle ground success is more likely to occur. I believe this middle ground is what you call versatility.
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