"Reciprocities" is a poem by C. Lagan that explores the reciprocal nature of relationships. The poem depicts how relationships can change over time and provides insight into the importance of balance and reciprocity in relationships.
The opening lines of the poem set the stage for the rest of the piece, as they describe the relationship between the speaker and another person: "we ebbed and flowed / never quite equal in time." This establishes the idea of imbalance, which is a recurring theme throughout the poem. The use of "ebbed and flowed" suggests that the relationship between the two individuals has been tumultuous, with highs and lows.
The second stanza shifts the focus to the concept of reciprocity, with the lines "I gave the moon / and you gave the stars." This imagery highlights the idea that both individuals in a relationship have something to offer, and that these offerings should be balanced in order for the relationship to be a healthy one. However, the next two lines show that this balance is not currently present: "I gave my all / and you gave a part."
The final stanza of the poem makes reference to time, with the lines "we stand at a crossroads / looking towards the setting sun." This suggests that the relationship has reached a critical point, and that a decision must be made about whether or not to continue. The lines "will we both move forward / or will one of us run?" speak to the idea that both individuals must be willing to put in effort in order for the relationship to continue; if one person is not willing to reciprocate, the relationship is likely to fail.
Overall, "Reciprocities" is a poem that explores the concept of balance and reciprocity in relationships. It highlights the importance of both individuals contributing equally to a relationship, and suggests that relationships cannot be sustained if one party is unwilling to put in effort.