I think this is a beautiful poem. Your analysis of the shape, and how it is so intentionally built into the words themselves (rather than just as line breaks) enhances my appreciation. It causes me to not take for granted the effort of the author to build the experience of the poem to be felt in multiple ways - with sound, meaning, and sight.
I'm generally mildly annoyed by shape poems, but this one certainly transcends the gimmick.
What lovely synchronicity! I was just writing about this poem this weekend as well, inspired by Karen Swallow Prior's reading.
I think this is a beautiful poem. Your analysis of the shape, and how it is so intentionally built into the words themselves (rather than just as line breaks) enhances my appreciation. It causes me to not take for granted the effort of the author to build the experience of the poem to be felt in multiple ways - with sound, meaning, and sight.
How spare, beautiful and true.