Part 1 of a change

by Poet on the Piano   Jul 28, 2016


Thursday, 7/28/16 11:30 am

I buzz in through the backdoor,
a steaming Starbucks cup in my hand -
one short, black coffee.

He answered and greeted me
with thanks, waving me in then
finishing up his rounds with the
incoming customers.

He gently led me to the back room -
the safe room, even without a lock
I knew your thoughts couldn't hurt me
here.

I told him I'm not sure if I'd show up tonight,
I don't know how this will go...
our family isn't one to communicate.

I don't know what's on his mind, but the
moment my eyes gave up their pretense,
he startled me with truth:

"Now you must stay strong. Mostly for you,
but also for your mother. You
will be strong enough..."

And I must believe that, as I wait all day
for you to arrive home from work.
To see if you'll notice my new skateboard,
my mapped out lists of bus routes,
my firm grip on the collar of a broken-hearted
mutt.

To see if you'll understand that your daughter's
done begging...
To see if you'll care that your wife is always
on her knees, her first prayer a ticket to peace.

I won't let you break me, anymore.

I won't let you tear apart what's left of this family.

    report violation
3


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Latest Comments

  • 8 years ago

    by Em

    Hi as the previous comments have said this poem is not to be pulled apart because no matter how we interpret this as a reader you will be the only person to know what was inspiring you and why.
    You have a real way with words and writing them so well.

    All the best, Em

  • 8 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    Hello,

    As BlueJay states, this is a personal write and not one to be dissected. I just want you to know that I have read your words (a few times) and feel for your situation.

    Take care,

    Michael ((hugs))

  • 8 years ago

    by BlueJay

    I know this, like your last poem, is far too personal for me to dissect, especially because I fear for how many people breezing through will believe that they relate. So instead I will merely respond technically, by congratulating you on your wave of emotion and how it truly reaches out to the reader and gives them an idea of just how painful your shoes are at the moment. Your style was an excellent choice, the gaps show where you are really trying to muster strength and the intact stanzas convey a sense of "this is on my mind, this is what I'm saying and you should listen" - only a lot more elegantly than that. I think your word choice is absolutely perfect and that they way you are creating your images and describing the people and things around you is incredible.

    Brilliant write. Though I'm sorry for whatever is inspiring it. (Again, I'd rather not try to dig too deeply).

    • 8 years ago

      by Poet on the Piano

      Thank you for taking the time to leave your thoughts and sweet words. It's greatly appreciated. Hope you are well.

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