Auto Lullaby
Franz Wright
Think of a sheep
knitting a sweater;
think of your life
getting better and better.
Think of your cat
asleep in a tree;
think of that spot
where you once skinned your knee.
Think of a bird
that stands in your palm.
Try to remember
the Twenty-first Psalm.
Think of a big pink horse
galloping south;
think of a fly, and
close your mouth.
If you feel thirsty, then
drink from your cup.
The birds will keep singing
until they wake up.
Author Bio
Franz Wright’s collections of poetry include The Beforelife (2001), God’s Silence (2006), and Walking to Martha’s Vineyard, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 2004. Franz Wright’s father was also a writer. Franz has taught at Emerson College and other universities. He spends his time working in mental health clinics, and volunteering at a center for grieving children. Wright generally addresses the subjects of isolation, illness, spirituality, and gratitude, in his poems.
The Meaning
This poem originally appeared in "Poetry Not Written for Children that Children Might Nevertheless Enjoy." by Lemony Snicket. The author's style is very different from most. He creates abrupt changes. Each stanza evokes a different emotion, in a simple moment. The first stanza is about joy. The second stanza is nostalgic. The third stanza brings an emotion of awe and the fourth is whimsical. The fifth and final stanza is about reality.