Poems & Prayers

The poems in this section are about how to steer metaphorically—how to keep moving forward on one’s own path. There are nine titled poems, three untitled poems, a prayer, and a proverb. 

“Is life the chase we race” advises embracing life for as long as possible, not worrying about death. “Further from Hell,” argues that leaning in the direction of heaven rather than hell means embodying forgiveness and love. “Skinny Cows and Dollar Bills” counsels not to put one’s wealth on display, where it can be seen by others. 

Several poems feature journeys. “Shades for the Eclipse” describes a literal trip into town to buy special glasses from a woman called Nikki to look at a solar eclipse. “Changing Lanes” is about a metaphorical journey. The speaker claims that one does not need to use a blinker to make a new turn in life because it doesn’t require anyone’s permission or advance knowledge to do so. Another actual trip takes place in “Deuces,” in which McConaughey is desperate to find a roadside restroom on the road early in the morning; he is very relieved (in more ways than one) when he does. In the note that appears above the poem “Birmingham,” McConaughey mentions that he drove 400,000 miles in an Airstream around North America.