Mary Tracy’s Poem “Legacy” Explores Our Place in Nature

Mary Tracy’s poem “Legacy,” recently featured in the poetry series Deep Water, delves into the concept of our afterlives within the expansive timelines of nature. The poem reflects on the enduring legacies of various beings and natural elements, illustrating the interconnectedness of life. Tracy, who resides in Portland, finds inspiration in the mundane, crafting her work at a table that overlooks her neighborhood.

Tracy, a former educator and accomplished poet, co-leads poetry classes at the University of Southern Maine Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. Her writing, characterized by its depth and appreciation for the ordinary, resonates with readers by highlighting the significance of everyday experiences.

The poem “Legacy” emphasizes the shared existence of all life forms, posing profound questions about what it means to leave a mark on the world. The speaker contemplates their place among countless organisms, suggesting that true legacy may not require grand gestures but rather a connection to future generations.

“I need no legacy longer than the lives of my grandchildren to be ethereal,”

the poem states, capturing the essence of continuity and belonging. Tracy’s work invites readers to consider their own legacies and the impact of their lives on the broader tapestry of existence.

Submissions to Deep Water are currently open until the end of the year. The series encourages contributions from diverse voices, particularly those of Black writers, writers of color, indigenous writers, and LGBTQ+ writers. Interested poets can submit their work through the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance at mainewriters.org/deep-water.

“Legacy,” copyright 2025 by Mary Tracy, appears by permission of the author. As part of the ongoing effort to elevate diverse perspectives in literature, Deep Water continues to seek out and celebrate the rich tapestry of voices that shape Maine’s literary landscape.