For a Slip of the Tongue

Speaking ill of others, gossip, carrying tales
     the quickest route to hell's fiery jail
   for the mightiest weapon of war is the tongue

   Who lives, who dies -- a civil tongue's praises are sung
     or for lack of same on the gallows is hung
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Rodrigues Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 8:09 PM
The tongue is a dangerous fire… I’ll keep my tattle tales to myself.
Rodrigues Avatar
November 3, 2023 at 9:55 AM
Love your references! LOL
Wolf Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 8:12 PM
Sticks and stones can only break my bones; if you tattle, you'll destroy me... ~ Nancy, to Sluggo
Ashley Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 6:12 PM
Dear Gershon, your poetic pen is as eloquent as it is potent. Gossip is mean-spirited and destructive. Indeed, the "mightiest weapon of war is the tongue".. it can also be a powerful instrument of peace. A civil tongue keeps civilized society civil.. a thought-provoking piece, my friend. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan
Ashley Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 6:42 PM
hahaha! that would be entertaining!
Wolf Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 6:39 PM
Hopefully civil tongues can prevent a civil war in this nation... Maybe if it were confined to Washington D.C., the Halls of Congress, it might be great entertainment: Pelosi grabs the gavel; Jeffries grabs it back; McCarthy ascends the podium; AOC gives him a whack... lol. Thanks, Susan
Dietrich Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 12:15 PM
Gallows is a bit extreme, but yes, some people ruin others' lives with their horrible gossiping. Good one, Gershon
Wolf Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 6:30 PM
Justice sometimes demands the death penalty, although Western society is repulsed by that idea. (Whatever happened to the 'Old West?!')
Jones Avatar
November 1, 2023 at 9:48 PM
Amen. Well said
Wolf Avatar
November 2, 2023 at 6:16 PM
Thanks for puttin' me on the 'A'-(men) Team,' Karen!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace