Hippocratic Oath

Did you see the white bird fly,
pale against the azure sky,
did you watch the dead leaves fall,
windblown, strewn against the wall?

Did you hear the north wind's sigh,
coursing through the winter rye,
were you taken by surprise,
knowing now her words were lies?

Did you feel the heavens shift
as those words passed through her lips,
does she grieve the babes unborn,
as she turned from you in scorn?

Hypocrite, heard no alarm,
despite her oath to do no harm,
witness now the blackbirds fly,
ink against the blood-red sky.

All the trees are stripped and bare,
blackened claws that scrape the air,
vultures rip and tear the seams,
gorging, shredding all your dreams.

Feel the wind caress your face,
remembering her last embrace.

(For Ryan)
Copyright © | Year Posted 2009

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

Meadows Avatar
July 17, 2009 at 5:38 PM
very good rhymes and very good descriptive words. check out some of my poems
Mason Avatar
January 8, 2009 at 11:46 AM
The description of the blackbird: "ink against the blood-red sky" is a very powerful image here in this write. You are a wonderful writer, Danielle and I'm glad you are here at the Soup!!
Burton Avatar
January 6, 2009 at 8:55 AM
great poetry that really hit home with the realitys of life. enjoyed reading it and have a great day. Dont laugh at my poem BABYS.... TAKE THE TEST
Faulkner Avatar
January 5, 2009 at 8:38 PM
heartbreak. simply amazing. very well penned. lovely write - love and peace james
Strand Avatar
January 5, 2009 at 8:20 AM
One for my favourites Danielle beautiful poem.Rgds Brian.Thanks for your blog comments where did you come acros it on the net ?
Fawcett Avatar
January 4, 2009 at 9:16 AM
Heartbreakingly beautiful, Danielle. You are definitely the queen of rhyme! Love, Nigel
Richards Avatar
January 4, 2009 at 8:05 AM
The pain and loss of someone you love seems so staggering in this heartbreaking poem. Well written, Danielle...can feel the sorrow. ~ Carrie
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