Confusion Rains (Or Is It Reigns Or Reins?)

I suppose struggling bards (such as I) are wont to muse
Upon profound or inane topics to propound our views.
So, it occured to me how baffling the English language could be,
To new arrivals to our shores from international potpourri.

Will he ever master the usage of to, two, tutu and too?
Should he order "coal" or "cole" slaw at his favorite rendevous?
Plane could be a woodworking tool or is it that thing in the sky,
Or something plain and simple or a plain of undulating rye?

He tries to sort out the subtleties of yawl and ya'll,
And the nuances of aunt, ant and if that ain't all,
How can he figure out the use of maul, moll and mall?
Is it a golf ball or a formal ball? 'Tis enough to make him bawl!

He must ever ponder if a yard is three feat or three feet,
And is addled about the use of peek, peak and pique.
Is a pupil a kid in class or something to do with the eye?
Buy, bi, by and bye, now what does each of those imply?

His fear is that he'll never get it write or is it rite or right?
He preys (or prays?) for deliverance from his fearful plight.
Momma mia! He's bewildered and just wants to return home,
To that Eternal City in Italy called Rome (or is it Roam?)!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
(© All Rights Reserved)

Copyright © | Year Posted 2010



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Date: 4/25/2010 2:17:00 PM
It's kinda sad when I was born in the states and I'm still confused. I can't imagine what it would be like coming from over seas and then trying to learn. Excelent poem. love, Destiny
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Date: 4/16/2010 6:48:00 PM
Oh the mysteries of life!
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Date: 4/16/2010 4:28:00 PM
Yes that is me confused on so many different ways every one uses our words differently. We also use other countries words different our self. Got to catch up . IRMA
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Date: 4/16/2010 4:24:00 PM
Bob H. Now you made my day. I just posted my poem .This is the first to see your name as soon as I posted it. I know now I am appreciated by you. One of my favs. on the soup. I do miss reading your fine rhymes. I like the funny style you have in this one. I am always corrected for using the wrong word. I say-the dog rome outside- Not realizing you spell it -roam outaide. This one got my attention. I just have to read it once more. Irma
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Date: 4/15/2010 9:47:00 PM
A nice interplay of words well penned
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Date: 4/15/2010 2:19:00 PM
Thnx for alway reading, and encouraging me with your comments on my writes, Robert...it means a whole lot to me...truly appreciate it...Jimmy
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Date: 4/15/2010 1:55:00 PM
You're always soooo good, Robert! Your humor is delightful! I enjoyed this very much and am adding it to my favs! And thanks for reading and leaving your always kind, encouraging comments for me. Peace, Audrey
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Date: 4/15/2010 1:17:00 PM
That is bad when he don't know the difference of roam and rome... funny word play, write!!
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Date: 4/15/2010 12:40:00 PM
Nice play on words Bob .. gives the reader something to think deeply about while reading the content... enjoyed another creative write from u..luv.. "Sweetheart"
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