The Therapist Poetry Podcast

Exploring Growth, Shame, and Triumph Through Poetry with Fable

In this episode, we were honored to host Fable, a celebrated poet from Michigan, USA. Known for his raw and evocative poetry, Fable shared his poem Terrifying Truths from his latest collection, New American Monarch. The poem delves deep into themes of regret, shame, and personal growth. Fable also shared his journey of resilience and creativity, offering inspiration to anyone seeking to transform pain into purpose.

Terrifying Truths: A Reflection on Regret and Resilience

Fable’s poem, Terrifying Truths, explores the intersection of despair, self-reflection, and the sobering realities of personal responsibility. Here’s the poem in full:

Terrifying Truths

Today I’m meditating on a terrifying truth,
that there are more suicides at the Golden Gate Bridge
than any other single place in our country.
More people travel there to end their story—
flesh-coated iron and someone’s favorite heartbeat
venture to this location from all across
this trauma-ridden sphere to crash through
one of the world’s largest mirrors, the bay.

This structure, an undeniable magnet,
pulls matter from all corners of the globe,
drags blood out of its home,
attracts with the promise of wind rushing around you,
cradling you vigorously as every frantic last breath
pushes back at nature like a nonviolent protest,
a coin toss, entices you with one final look at
yourself in the reflective face of the ocean.

Fact: I’ve contemplated taking my own life a thousand times.
There are two reasons I’ve never considered this route:

One, because I am terrified to death of heights.
Even the thought of crossing bridges makes my palms secrete fear,
and if I was to stand at the edge of life and had a heart attack
before I closed the last chapter,
that’d be one last thing I couldn’t do right.

And two, because I am sure that during that final gaze
into the water’s truth, I would see all of my abusers
reflecting off the surface.
I’d be reminded of not only how I got there,
but of my own terrifying truth:
my face too may appear in someone else’s final moments.

And that is something I deserve to live.

Fable’s Journey: From Struggles to Strength

Fable’s personal story is as compelling as his poetry. Once struggling with addiction and destructive behaviors, he credits poetry and creative writing as transformative outlets.

“I didn’t know how to say I was struggling, so I drank about it. Poetry became my way to give a voice to what I was feeling,” Fable shared.

Now five years sober, Fable openly discusses his battle with shame, the mistakes he’s made, and the courage it takes to acknowledge being the villain in someone else’s story. His journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness and the potential for change.

Why Terrifying Truths Resonates

Fable’s raw honesty strikes a chord with anyone grappling with their inner demons. The poem does more than describe despair—it shines a light on the complexities of facing one’s past and the strength required to live with the truth.

If you or someone you know is struggling, Fable’s words are a reminder that hope and change are possible. Let this be an invitation to start a conversation, seek help, or find solace in creative expression.

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Final Thoughts

Fable’s Terrifying Truths and his story remind us that we are never alone in our struggles. Through art, reflection, and community, even the darkest moments can be a catalyst for growth.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to check out Fable’s latest collection, New American Monarch, and share this post to inspire others