I’m reading modern poetry
11 July 2005
I’m reading modern poetry
and much to my surprise,
the naked truth I’d hoped to see
lies hidden and disguised.
It looks impressive now and then
to play with empty space,
add a few obscure allusions
to make a poem great.
personal subjectivity –
each standard that is raised,
declares meaning is meaningless
I’m impressed by such praise!
It’s true, the harder that I try,
the less I understand,
poetic anarchy aside,
I judge for just one man.
Rules & Regulations
05 July 2005
Rules & Regulations (a found poem)
children must be –
remove shoes before
no jumping!
no climbing!
children should not
children must be
under four feet
over three years
into the playplace
in the ball pit
on the equipment
to play
Room 111A
03 July 2005
Room 111A
In a windowless room,
dawn waits fluorescently,
distant conversations
mimic remembered birdsong …
a second hand ticks,
in time with silent tears
as alone she sits
and remembers –
shape-shifting clouds,
sunsets …
Azaleas in bloom …
fresh cut summer grass …
harvest time …
oven fresh bread,
strolling hand in hand through December snow,
her first kiss, before saying “I do”
motherhood …
the sound of laughter …
two weddings …
seven grandchildren …
hugs and smiles …
strawberry shortcake with whipped cream
one funeral …
looking out through downcast eyes,
a lifetime of memories
slowly fades,
and as the lights are dimmed,
graciously, sleep comes
one last time.
Captain
03 July 2005
Captain
I zig and zag, deceived by the rudder’s control,
needing to believe I am captain of my soul.
each twist and turn increases desperation’s hold,
vanity driven by lust – lead into gold.
if the disparity of choice was ever disclosed,
then each journey’s end would be a meaningless goal,
a distant vanishing point to be bought or sold.
bewildered, inner voices never agree in full.
losing purpose and perspective, dreams grow cold,
existence defined by merely doing what I am told.
Purple's Platitudes 