Laura Leiser Poet Free verse

Burning Daylight

They are lined up along the long hallways
wheelchairs protruding, blocking the corridors.
The aroma of antiseptic spray attempts to mask
the pungent smell of body odors.

The loud blare of the big screen TV 
reverberates from the empty day room,
while medical staff busily sort paperwork 
behind the sterile counter tops. 

Each ancient face, each frail body
huddled beneath their blankets 
reflect a unique history, a life story
that is waning with the passage of time.

Men and women, now trapped within their
weakened bodies, once vibrant and strong
now confined and consigned to wait
away from the public eye, burning daylight.




Written on 4/28/2015

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Sandra Haight May 26, 2015 at 12:29 PM Hi Laura, I've been away for 10 days, still catching up with PS! Congratulations on your fine win for your 'Burning Daylight' poem. Hugs, Sandra Laura Leiser May 26, 2015 at 12:45 PM Thank you, Sandra, for your kind words! I was gone for about that time, as well, recently when we were visiting our sons in NYC. Glad you're back :)

Poet Destroyer A May 25, 2015 at 5:33 PM Laura, Congratulations on your win. LOVE LINDA Laura Leiser May 25, 2015 at 6:37 PM Thanks, Linda! I appreciate you stopping by with your encouraging words :)

Skat A May 25, 2015 at 1:22 AM Laura, Congrats on your BURNING DAYLIGHT win. SKAT Laura Leiser May 25, 2015 at 11:42 AM Thank you, Skat! I appreciate your stopping by with your kind comment :)

John Lawless May 24, 2015 at 7:13 PM Laura, this one had me reflecting on the situation of so many of our veterans on this memorial day weekend. Well written, impressive and thought provoking poem. thank you for participating in the contest. Laura Leiser May 24, 2015 at 7:37 PM Thank you, John, for placing me in your contest, too. I can see where this poem applies to our brave veterans, and have always appreciated their sacrifice for our freedom. A Happy Memorial Day to you! :)

Jiril Clemons May 3, 2015 at 8:00 PM Deeply impressive poem, Laura. The vision of the nursing home, and occupants is perfectly illustrated in this metaphoric, and descriptive piece, One of the best poems I've read in a minute. Enjoyable overall. Check out some of my poems, might find some you like. Peace. Laura Leiser May 4, 2015 at 5:25 PM Thank you so very much, Jiril! I really appreciate your kind comments. God bless :)

Hannington Mumo April 30, 2015 at 12:43 AM Wow...Thanks for this orgasmic poem. I really adore the lines...7+++!!!

Eve Roper April 29, 2015 at 10:27 AM Laura, a heartfelt emotional poem,a 7 and good luck in the contest. Blessings eve Laura Leiser April 29, 2015 at 10:32 AM Thank you, Eve. I've worked in these places and have felt the sadness that can descend upon it, especially when there are no visitors from family or friends.

Sandra Haight April 28, 2015 at 10:22 AM Oh, Laura...I read your poem and it gave me goosebumps and brought tears to my eyes. You express the most sad and pitiful way of burning daylight and it breaks one's heart. I have been there in that long hallway, watching my grandma years ago. I know that scene very well, and it hurts. Such an outstanding poem I hope to see high on the winner's list. 7+Fav. Hugs, Sandra Laura Leiser April 28, 2015 at 11:24 AM It is a heartbreaking thing to witness, and I have also worked in such an environment, as I was a nurse for many years. I do have such an empathy for these precious older people, and I hope that serving them in some small way helped them feel better. Thanks for your kind comments, and I'm sure you were a loving comfort to your grandmother, dear Sandra.