Cushion First
Cushion First - meaning Summary
Begin with a Cautious Move
The poem offers practical, wry advice for moments of despair. Using a billiards metaphor, it urges the reader not to surrender when options seem exhausted. Instead of attempting a risky direct shot, the speaker counsels a cautious preparatory move — "take the cushion first" — implying patience, planning, and choosing safer initial steps when circumstances look bleak. The tone is terse and encouraging rather than sentimental.
Read Complete AnalysesWhen all your days are dark with doubt; And drying hope is at its worst; When all life’s balls are scattered wide, With not a shot in sight, to left or right, Don’t give it up; Advance your cue and shut your eyes, And take the cushion first.
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