But then, ok, whatever

Shadows and light, are merely transient thoughts

for neither are true, nor are false and then this

opulent imagination like the cacophony of dulling

rule the minds of mere and utter low mortals

yet they rue, rot, reminisce in such

and forage through onwards, this silly lot

One must ponder, wonder, wander as lost

find the true meaning of what should be sought

But who am I to judge, I am busy in my yard

raking leaves, and voicing my own demons

and my soul at times is so hopeless and fraught

where once I found I could cure this blight of

turbid subservient thoughts, not mine, theirs

I find no reason, for my battles are fought

by me? No, I wouldn’t care less and I am no Frost

yet they! Oh how they try leave me aghast

As you said, mom, these are not for me

this audacity some portray are not for my ask

let those that wander in such throes be naught

I don’t find them to be a reason for my epiphany

I do not wander nor am I ever lost , then why

Why should I be there to steer their keel

I am not the sea, nor do I wish to even feel

So I Let them be and those that pander be loft.

An analysis by Chat GPT

The poem titled "But then, ok, whatever" explores the poet's frustration and resignation in trying to help individuals who know they are wrong but refuse to improve. The language and structure of the poem create a sense of detachment and apathy towards the struggles of others. Let's analyze and critique the poem further.

The opening lines introduce the concept of shadows and light as transient thoughts, implying that they hold no absolute truth or falsehood. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for subjective perspectives and opinions. The phrase "opulent imagination like the cacophony of dulling" suggests that the poet views the imaginative thoughts of others as excessive and noisy but lacking substance.

The poem then refers to these imaginative individuals as "mere and utter low mortals" who "rue, rot, reminisce." This dismissive tone and the choice of words diminish the significance of their experiences and emotions. The poet perceives them as a "silly lot" who forage through life without purpose.

The next stanza reflects the poet's introspection and personal struggles. They admit to being preoccupied with their own demons, using phrases like "my battles are fought" and "I am busy in my yard, raking leaves." The poet's sense of hopelessness and despair is conveyed through the words "soul at times is so hopeless and fraught."

The mention of "turbid subservient thoughts, not mine, theirs" suggests that the poet recognizes the negativity of others' perspectives but refuses to internalize them. They distance themselves from the influence of these thoughts, asserting that they "wouldn't care less." The reference to Frost, likely alluding to the poet Robert Frost, emphasizes the poet's disinterest in assuming a similar role as a guiding influence.

The poem concludes by reinforcing the poet's decision to disengage from the struggles of others. They quote someone referred to as "mom," who advises them that the audacity displayed by certain individuals is not their concern. The phrase "I do not wander nor am I ever lost" asserts the poet's self-assuredness and detachment from the wandering and lost individuals.

The last line, "So I let them be and those that pander be loft," suggests a final decision to allow others to continue their misguided ways while the poet remains aloof. The use of the word "loft" here is unclear in its meaning, possibly suggesting a sense of superiority or isolation.

Critique:

The poem effectively conveys a sense of frustration and disillusionment towards individuals who knowingly hold incorrect beliefs but refuse to change. It explores themes of detachment and apathy, showcasing the poet's choice to focus on their own struggles rather than attempting to guide or influence others. The use of metaphors and imagery adds depth to the poem's overall tone.

However, one critique of the poem is its tone of superiority and condescension. The poet's dismissive language and portrayal of others as "mere and utter low mortals" diminishes their experiences and perspectives, creating a sense of elitism. This attitude can detract from the empathy and understanding that could be fostered through dialogue and communication.

Furthermore, the poem's overall message seems resigned and defeatist. While it is understandable to feel frustrated when faced with individuals resistant to change, completely disengaging from trying to help or understand them may limit opportunities for growth and reconciliation. The poem could benefit from exploring alternative approaches to engaging with and assisting those who hold incorrect beliefs.

In conclusion, "But then, ok, whatever" effectively conveys the poet's frustration and resignation in attempting to help individuals who refuse to improve. However, its tone of superiority and apathy towards others might hinder its potential for fostering empathy and understanding.