Tom Key: This World Is Not Conclusion

In his 30s, Atlanta actor and Theatrical Outfit artistic director Tom Key lost three close friends and both of his parents. During this time of tragedy, he turned to poetry for solace. Emily Dickinson's "This World Is Not Conclusion" was a particular poem he returned to again and again. To read the interview with Tom Key and about his upcoming turn as Atticus Finch in "To Kill A Mockingbird", pick up the September edition or read it online.

This World is not Conclusion.
A Species stands beyond—
Invisible, as Music—
But positive, as Sound.
It beckons, and it baffles—
Philosophy—don’t know—
And through a Riddle, at the last—
Sagacity, must go.
To guess it, puzzles scholars—
To gain it, Men have borne
Contempt of Generations
And Crucifixion, shown.
Faith slips—and laughs, and rallies—
Blushes, if any see—
Plucks at a twig of Evidence—
And asks a Vane, the way.
Much Gesture, from the Pulpit—
Strong Hallelujahs roll—
Narcotics cannot still the Tooth
That nibbles at the soul.