Park Slope Poetry

The poem is “Desiderata” by Max Ehrmann, and it sits on the corner of 5th Avenue and Union next to the curious Who’s Your Uncle mural. Written in 1920, it seems as if it could have been written four hundred years ago or last week.

It’s a text filled with good, self-affirming advice: “Do not feign affection,” “Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story,” and “you have a right to be here.”

At a time of disingenuous political campaigns and unemployment-fueled low self-esteem, a trip to 5th and Union might be just the thing.