Jim Hirtle Poet Narrative

Behind Broken Memories

I can’t do this today
Peering through dirty windows at citizens disappearing
Behind shells made of unconvincing paper
Masking unspoken fears, unshaven faces
Unrealized hope
As I sip on day old coffee 
Listening to church bells ring meaningless summons
And politicians competing to weave the biggest lies
As the forgotten ones stand in lines separated by social space
To acquire food with borrowed money on borrowed time
From vendors looted the night before
Under the glow of torched cars, flaming buildings, and burnt down lives that don’t matter
Streets filled with hate for brothers and sisters
Whose skin is darker, whiter, different
I can’t do this again
Sitting hour after hour
Watching, waiting
Alone
 
Behind broken memories
Wondering where you are
Everywhere I look
You are not there
I can’t do this
alone

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Jennifer Fenn June 7, 2021 at 5:18 PM Hi Jim! This poem mirrors what life is like in the midst of all hate, riots, and politics today. Good job capturing that.

Millard Lowe June 7, 2021 at 1:33 PM Keloid memories keep us abreast of how much more meandering work we must continue to word. Peace and Love (Poetry Vibe.com; mlowe5)

Jean Bush June 7, 2021 at 10:40 AM Very perceptive of our mutually endured condition. You always seem to be capturing the essence of us. Good work.

Michelle Faulkner April 13, 2021 at 4:35 PM So insightful of the stressful year we have all endured, and it is not over yet, and yes, so much harder to face alone~