An Empty Wooden Box

I found within a hidden place,
an ancient wooden box that I'd forgotten.
I took it to my room—then raised its lid— 
and, listening, heard its worn out
hinges creak and moan.

Within I found, likewise unremembered, 
10,000 little slips of paper on which were written
things that you and I had said and done, 
places we had been, 
and names of friends we once called ours.

But I am old and nodded off to sleep.
And in those hours arose a wind that carried them away. 
Now here I sit within my forlorn room—
alone and in the dark— 
with just an empty wooden box.

Sorrow for the victims of Alzheimer's.

December 16, 2019
Your Best New Poem
Emile Pinet

Copyright © | Year Posted 2019



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Date: 2/3/2020 3:21:00 PM
oh wow, I really love this, Mark. I can see why you chose this for your favorite poem in that contest. did it not even place?? I see no congratulations or anything. OH wait, I DO see that you placed. thank heavens. CONGRATULATIONS
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Mark Peterson
Date: 2/4/2020 11:59:00 PM
Thanks, Andrea. This is dedicated to a wonderful poet friend. I edited the poems he wrote before a stroke took away so much of what he was. I got him signed up here and helped him post a few of his poems. Search for Johnnie Hynson.
Date: 1/15/2020 9:12:00 AM
Wow impressive poem, makes me think of the raven classic somehow. So is this great poem personal or on behalf of Alzheimer's victims? Whatever it is it deserves kudos. Pls pleez do review/ comment my newest poem too.
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Mark Peterson
Date: 1/19/2020 1:40:00 AM
Not personal, just on behalf of sufferers. Thanks for your thoughtful and supportive remarks, as usual, my friend.
Date: 1/8/2020 6:19:00 PM
The poignancy of this wonderful poem hits home for me Mark. My best friend of over 45 years no longer remembers me or her Goddaughter, my youngest. I hope this is a top winner Mark. Excellent! New year blessings Aloha, Connie xxoo
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Mark Peterson
Date: 1/9/2020 12:44:00 PM
So sorry to hear of it. The poem placed 7th, but I believe there were quite a few entries. Happiest of everything to you in 2020. I remember you very well, dear Connie.
Date: 1/2/2020 12:10:00 AM
You have an incredible mind, Yue. Such wonderful work..! :)
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Mark Peterson
Date: 1/9/2020 12:45:00 PM
What a wonderful remark, Muddasar. Thank you!
Date: 12/28/2019 5:32:00 PM
Congratulations Mark! Your poem earned a distinguished place in my contest. This contest was very tough to judge, for I was very strict, well done my friend, Emile.
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Mark Peterson
Date: 1/19/2020 1:43:00 AM
Emile, thanks for hosting this contest. I am so pleased to have placed. All best wishes to you.
Date: 12/17/2019 12:09:00 AM
A grave and serious subject addressed with great care. Very artfully conveyed, my friend.
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Mark Peterson
Date: 12/17/2019 10:44:00 AM
Thank you, my ever present friend, for whom no expression of gratitude will ever be sufficient.
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