The Collected Writings of Brian J. Mueller

A single poem, met at the right moment, can change a life.

Search and read all 1,834 pieces by Brian J. Mueller — 1,675 poems, 38 prose pieces, and 121 haiku from 12 published volumes. Free to read and share.

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Shadow Work

The Shadow knows!

When I am clenched
I can choose to let go,
and in my falling
discover I have wings.

Nothing holds me
any tighter than I am clenching,
and nothing is more resolute
than my dread of the unknown.

We’re all existential travelers
moving at our own pace,
getting lost in little things
while trudging alongside
the very specter of death.

I now grasp at words,
seeking balance and clarity.
My soul prays from the shadows:
let go... let go.