R. L. Swarts

My Personal Journal R. L. Swarts

Introduction "My Personal Journal" is a collection of poems written over the course of a couple of years, November of 2003 to June 2005. When I first began to write I had no pre-conceived idea of why I decided to keep a journal or why my thoughts turned into what can be considered my best attempt at writing poetry. Most of what you'll find in these poems are fictional experiences and ideas that came from my imagination. I felt it necessary to expose fears and doubts as well as hopes and dreams in order to express myself. There are moments of sarcasm, melancholy and joy but the important thing is that all are told with the idea that there should be no discrimination or judgment placed on passing thoughts. It is in my honest opinion that language offers a receptacle for beauty and meaning. With that being said, I try to depict all situations and struggles in life with a quiet observing eye, even if what I see is negative, my thoughts remain positive. It is safe to say there is a design for everything that was written and revealed. Trying to understand different perspectives and opinions is very important to me, so I tried to reflect that in the poetry. I understand that in offering these poems to the public I am vulnerable to people's criticism, but I don't mind showing the insecurities and fallible nature of human existence. Besides, much of what I have written has helped me to learn how to find humor in myself and also become a better person. I hope that my poetry can be used as a tool for your development or at least another way of thinking so that you might be able to relate and grow as an individual. R. L. Swarts