What is the poem the familiar has taken leave by Richard O Moore about

The Familiar Has Taken Leave by Richard O. Moore

The poem, written by broadcaster, documentary filmmaker and poet, Richard O. Moore was part of a “sequence of sonnets about the consequences of losing his sight in old age”. At its core, the poem is about change…and how we respond. When the world was visible and real.

The poem explores the theme of losing one’s sight in old age, and the impact that loss has on one’s perception of the world. The title, "The Familiar Has Taken Leave", suggests a sense of familiarity slipping away, as the speaker grapples with the changes brought on by their loss of sight.

Through poignant imagery and evocative language, Moore paints a vivid picture of the internal struggle faced by the speaker as they come to terms with their new reality. The poem delves into the emotional journey of accepting change and finding a new way of experiencing the world.

Overall, "The Familiar Has Taken Leave" is a powerful reflection on the nature of change and resilience in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder of our capacity to adapt and find meaning in the midst of life’s challenges.