Uploaded October 2024 | Updated September 2026, 1 day ago

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Plato's famous allegory of the cave described a reality perceived by many that was really only a projection of shadows on the wall. Many were trapped inside the cave - while those in the know would venture from time to time outside, and then return to help those who were still living in the dark.

Beyond the Cave

I met with Plato
at the mouth of the cave
he was returning to the fold
rejuvenated
I was coming out for air
asphyxiated
the colours dazzled
the clouds floated by
purposefully
the birds flew by
playfully
‘that’s better’ said Plato
‘be not downcast’
‘but’ said I
‘nothing ever changes in the cave’
‘look behind you’ said he
a child appeared
out of the dark
shielding her eyes
then gazing up
she smiled a smile
that spread as a beam
across her face
then
deftly and instantly
across the universe
now secure
for eternity.

(c) RKelly 2024