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Coming of Age

In the chapel wherein he laid His final moments here on earth, Mirrored image of one’s boyhood Stands he to claim his scabbard blade, The chance to prove his manhood. His mother chides him of his birth Begs her the need to prove his worth, His load is heavy the mist swirls With sword in hand a stab he hurls, Choice of opponent augurs well For his father’s champion fell. Mortal flame in constant bedeck Life’s been a tombstone round his neck, Needs the journey for which to trek. His thirst for blood flows from many Greed for gold and silver penny, His ships glide portly on the tide Needs to be by his mother’s side. A man he thinks he has become Yet all the folk at home had fled, No one listens to his humdrum When he returns to find her dead! © Harry J Horsman 2020

Copyright © | Year Posted 2020




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Date: 1/24/2020 9:08:00 AM
A wonderful write, has a Shakespearean flavor to it. Best wishes for the contest Harry. Blessings, Jennifer.
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Date: 1/14/2020 5:49:00 PM
strict rhyme and metre alright. ALL RIGHT, ALL WRITE!
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Date: 1/14/2020 3:50:00 AM
A harmonious poem masterfully written dear, harry! Congratulations!
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Date: 1/13/2020 9:03:00 PM
Powerful tale. Well done on the form. (Seems like it would be difficult.)
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Date: 1/13/2020 4:51:00 PM
Hello Harry … meter and rhyme; great. Very interesting tale indeed - thank you Harry - Lindsay
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Date: 1/13/2020 1:16:00 PM
Harry, "Life's been a tombstone around his neck" is so profound and conjures a sad image. His mother seems cruel to rue the day he was born. And then, just when he thought he was a man she would be proud of, she's dead. Speaks to the irony of life and the hardships we carry with us. Excellent writing, my friend. Best wishes in the contest! Hugs, Carolyn
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Date: 1/13/2020 12:12:00 PM
Enjoyed your verse Harry, nice imagery. Good luck in the contest. Tom
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Date: 1/13/2020 6:59:00 AM
WOW! This is awesome--kudos for the rhyme and meter but also for the story. Excellent, Harry.
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