Creative Madness

We marvel 
At the genius of madness 
Gush over its select few 
Brilliant stars that shine a bit brighter 
Through eyes that see the unseen.  

Their talent unbridled and raw 
Craftsman of unparalleled weaving 
They fill our minds and hearts 
With laughter, wonder and awe.  

We applaud them—we adore them 
Their gifts set our souls afire. 
They, our privileged artisans 
Their serenity often ruffled, and disturbed.  

We witness their surging creativity 
But is there a cost to shine so bright? 
Is there a debt bought for such privilege? 
Or is madness the price we assert.  

To us it seems the noise grows louder and louder 
Until their peace is drowned out. 
Perhaps the work of “tortured geniuses” 
Awakens spurts of madness that create a space to be filled.  

Are they attempting to tame their ferocious mind  

By falling into an addict’s bubble? 
Committing destruction against their souls 
Loneliness is their constant companion.  

Helpless, we watch them, predicting their demise 
Watch them spiral into decline 
Spinning through addiction and struggle 
Until they succumb to a grave end.  

Too soon, 
we say, 
They’ve gone much too soon 
Our mantra for these lost souls.  

Inspiration sighs 
For yet another white dwarf star 
Still we honor their creativity, their work 
Long after they have gone.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Burdon Avatar
March 9, 2021 at 7:50 PM
Sheila a wonderful and visual poetry write. Subject matter is unfortunately true. Thank you for your insight.
Henry Avatar
March 11, 2021 at 7:18 PM
Thank you, Judge
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