When Silence Speaks

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The devil sleeps in the hearts of men, When silence speaks no need of pen, Veiled, a puppet master pulling strings, Empathy dangling as the devil sings. Humanity resides in dreams despair, Hope futile against the growing swell, Frothing, the raging silent tongues, As blinkered pillars can do no wrong. Temples propped where caryatids sleep, Dark angels overt when silence speaks On higher ground in solemn prayer Halos removed to a deafened stare. No tears depart when silence speaks, Below the parapet the pliant meek, To sow in fields where shallow reaps, On mountain climbs a price too steep. Revenge is sweet, when silence speaks , It snuffs a life, whilst steadfast keeps, But weathered hearts true and strong, As I reflect on self, I see only one.

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Hilda Greenhough

Date: 5/9/2024 5:06:00 PM

I felt the uneasiness of the words that tell of a forced silence and a lack of a challenge. We so often hold our tongues and then wonder if we made a mistake. I like this poem. Good luck, if you are entered in the contest.

Daniel Caplin
Date: 5/9/2024 11:26:00 PM

Hello Hilda , I'm so pleased you liked this poem, it's a bit of a riddle as I love riddles. Thanks once again for taking the time to message , When Silence Speaks , Daniel

Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 5/8/2024 4:10:00 PM

Using the devil as the puppet master was creative and brilliant, Daniel. Indeed, the lure of the devil's song has thrown the world into chaotic despair where sometimes hope seems futile. Your poem was compelling and gave me pause, as I thought about my own 'darkness'. This is a contemplative poem needing self reflection. Am faving this one, Daniel. It's deserving of accolades! have a blessed evening, your Texas poet friend, Sara

Daniel Caplin
Date: 5/9/2024 11:58:00 AM

Hello Sara, many thanks for your message , there are so many ways to write about this topic , I'm not sure about the accolades but it served a point . Many thanks Danny

Silent One

Date: 5/8/2024 12:27:00 PM

The metaphor of the puppet master pulling strings evokes a sense of manipulation and control, suggesting that empathy is often overshadowed by the insidious influence of the devil's song. The poem paints a bleak picture of humanity's descent into despair and moral ambiguity, with hope futile against the overwhelming tide of darkness. Your poem challenges the reader to confront the darkness within themselves and to strive for self-awareness and moral clarity in the face of adversity.

Daniel Caplin
Date: 5/8/2024 1:21:00 PM

Good Evening silent one , thank you for taking the time to message and read my poem , as individuals we are complex creatures, and so this poem takes many forms and is open to each person's own interpretation . Daniel

Sam Kauffman

Date: 5/8/2024 10:55:00 AM

Daniel, your poem really exposes the dark underbelly of evil. Your imagery is eyepopping and intense conveying a human sense of futility yet, in the end we see the effect of "weathered hearts true and strong." Evil is not going to win! You have made words do your bidding in memorable poetic artistry. Wonderful entry for the contest. Best wishes. Blessings to you!

Daniel Caplin
Date: 5/8/2024 11:03:00 AM

Hi Sam , thank you so much for your kind words , they are truly appreciated, and thank you for your time and thoughts . Daniel