Asymmetry

My artist mother always preached 

The importance of asymmetry, 

Though she never explained why. 

So today I took two pictures — 

One with the boat centered, 

And this one, with it off to the right. 

And now I understand 

 The deeper significance of asymmetry: 

It’s not just that it’s pleasing to the eye; 

By moving the boat off to the side, 

 I give voice to the clouds and the sea. 

By centering the boat, we force the viewer 

 To focus there and miss 

 The beauty that surrounds it — 

Just as a leader who chooses to keep

All focus on himself

Devalues the gifts of those around him

And the organization he serves.