Poems About Coming Home: A Reflection on Belonging and Reconnection

Welcome Home!

There is a unique warmth that emanates from the phrase "coming home." It conjures up images of familiarity, safety, and a sense of belonging. For many, the idea of returning to a place where we feel loved and accepted is a comforting thought. Poets throughout history have captured this sentiment in their verses, crafting profound and heartfelt poems that celebrate the concept of coming home. In this article, we explore a handful of these captivating poems that beautifully illustrate the essence of returning to a place we call home.

1. "Ithaka" by C.P. Cavafy

"Ithaka" by C.P. Cavafy is a timeless poem that encapsulates the journey of life and the ultimate longing to return home. The poem invites readers to embrace the voyage itself, rather than focusing solely on the destination. Cavafy's words remind us that the joy lies not only in reaching our physical home but also in the personal growth and experiences gained along the way:

"Keep Ithaka always in your mind.
Arriving there is what you're destined for.
But don't hurry the journey at all.
Better if it lasts for years, so you're old by the time you reach the island,
wealthy with all you've gained on the way."

These powerful lines encourage us to appreciate the process of coming home, acknowledging that it's not solely about reaching a specific place but about the transformation and wisdom gained throughout the journey.

2. "The Coming Home Poems" by Margaret Atwood

"The Coming Home Poems" by Margaret Atwood is a collection of poems that explore the theme of returning home from various perspectives. Atwood's evocative verses touch upon the emotional complexities and the longing to reconnect with a place that holds memories and a sense of belonging. Here is an excerpt from one of the poems:

"I'm coming home, I'm coming home
the way a bird flies home to its nest.
I'm coming home, I'm coming home
to a place I knew in childhood,
a place that still lives in my heart."

Atwood's words evoke a profound nostalgia, highlighting the deep-rooted connection we feel towards our childhood homes. Through her poetry, she encourages readers to embrace the memories and emotions associated with coming back to the place where we first discovered ourselves.

3. "Home" by Warsan Shire

"Home" by Warsan Shire is a poignant poem that delves into the sense of displacement and the longing to find a place to call home. Shire, a Somali-British poet, explores the experience of refugees and the search for a sanctuary amidst chaos and uncertainty. Here is a powerful excerpt from her poem:

"No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark.
You only run for the border when you see the whole city running as well.
Your neighbors running faster than you, the