As Darkness Falls

As darkness falls without, it also falls within;
where listless slumber slowly takes me by the hand,
leads me to a place where I relive every sin
while Lilith does foretell what fate for me is planned.

The darkness not yet deep enough for me to drown
the fading light not bright enough to shine the way;
I fear the rabid laughing of the coming clown
as he performs his ghastly, nightly cabaret.

Old Harlequin will dance and whisper in my ear
and tell of all dark things that lurk within my soul;
for these, not those without, he knows, are what we fear.
Come here, my dear, abide with me, he will cajole.

Then, as he ventures forth to give his foul-breathed kiss,
unkindness host of ravens swoop, take out my eyes;
then, slowly I dissolve to silence, darkness, bliss;
another night, I have denied the devil's prize.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Smith Avatar
January 14, 2025 at 12:41 AM
Impressive. Terry. Your opening line I give a ten. and every line that welcomes us to a new paragraph of the yarn, that draws us into a darkness thought left behind and then leads us back to safety for now. welcome to 2025 for better or worse Terry. Poetry of this caliber might just give the year a bit more balance and hope. Regards David
Miller Avatar
January 15, 2025 at 7:31 AM
Oh wow, high praise indeed David, thank you so much for your too kind comments and visit, indeed welcome to 2025. This is a theme I visit regularly, and am not yet finished with.
Andresen Avatar
January 4, 2025 at 2:11 AM
- Gives the reader goosebumps, Terry ... skillfully written - hugs
Miller Avatar
January 4, 2025 at 8:20 AM
Thank you Anne-Lise, and a Happy New Year - hugs back
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace