Firecracker

There is no connection between being ninety-three years old and being ancient or timeless. The poems in this collection are contemporary-real, sincere, and thought-provoking. Strauss explores the many degrees of love-from young to old, from family to valued friends-in provocative and compassionate verse. Neither is love his only topic. He offers poetic viewpoints on poverty, disability, and war; he recalls traveling the long trail of parenthood from newly born child through to adulthood. The obstacles and joys in life that might be faced by age ninety-three bear examination in Firecracker: Poems at 93. Fire CrackerThere are many things Id like to beThere are many lives Id like to liveAbove all Id like to feel freeTo live and love, to forgiveA state of mind haunts my soulOne unusual wish torments my mindTo build my energy so it can explodeI wish I were a firecracker of some kindId light the sky with flames of loveId burn away the troubles of the worldPeople could look down, around and aboveTo know sunshine, clouds, see stars unfurlId arouse curiosity in childrenId teach them what controlled energy can doId teach them how music can enfold themId teach them to understand things old and newId like to be a firecracker, and make my mark in timeWith a loving companion as a backer, Id explode with love in a life sublimeThough you may not see love, Ill knowAs a firecracker, I could make it so.