Silent One Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

For John Lawless's Pick a line and like a hooked fish run with it poetry contest.

I picked the line in the title and just wrote... unedited..

 

I can't believe I thought that

I'm tired,
but tears still do not flow.
Craving to sleep forever,
but afraid of nightmares,
I remain 'opened eyed.'

I can't believe I thought that 
I had to always be strong,
so I became a stereotype.
It's hard being a silent lion.
This masculinity has literally killed me.
I'm too old to be king of a jungle,
so take my throne and wear my crown.

My joints are too worn to hunt,
but my roar is ready for expression,
so let me show my vulnerability. 
I guess, now I'm the prey?
But what made you the predator,
suggesting, I am a victim?

Never realised life would move so fast,
nor make me so stubborn,
when, in reality, I should have learned my lesson.

I know I'm not a priority,
I'll always be second best,
but all I ask is to walk with you 
in fields of fairness
and, maybe, just to be loved - 
even in small doses.

If you cannot understand today,
maybe you will realise tomorrow
and, despite the heartache -
I forgive you and take all of the blame.

I'll always be a tree for you to shelter,
although you have taken each and every leaf.
When you are lost in the wilderness,
I'll be the compass to guide you home.

Before, I leave,
is there a final request?
I know you won't ask me to stay

because in this illness,
I feel worthless... 
Wishing my walls would fall

but still, I refuse to crumble.

This summer there will be no sunflowers,
as all I feel is sorrow,
in a sky which is blue, 
but raining in red.

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John Lawless August 18, 2024 at 8:52 AM A multi leveled tour of the vagaries of life. Masterfully written SO. Sorry for the delay in judging this contest

Kelli White June 7, 2024 at 5:58 AM Love the metaphorical symbolism SO, very inspiring to read, Kelli

Tonye George May 23, 2024 at 7:25 PM We don't always have to be strong. Being vulnerable doesn't make us prey. There's more, something bigger. Your kindness, heart and it saves us from a lot more than tears. I always enjoy reading your creations Silent and I'm happy to be back.

Joe Maverick May 17, 2024 at 12:09 AM Quite deep and moving in and between the lines Si i wish you well, and all the best for johns Contest.!

Shadow Hamilton May 15, 2024 at 11:42 AM so sad SO and deep feelings are expressed in this write hugs Shadow

Kim Rodrigues May 13, 2024 at 5:45 PM Sad, hopeful, vulnerable, always faithful, want to be loved…beautiful expression. Hugs ~ Kim

Paige Hind May 13, 2024 at 10:49 AM Deep, with a lot of vulnerability...your words speak for themselves

Daniel Henry Rodgers May 13, 2024 at 9:12 AM Dear Silent One, A raw and deeply introspective exploration of the complexities of masculinity, vulnerability, and the struggle with self-worth. You have eloquently conveyed the weight of societal expectations and the toll it takes on one's mental and emotional well-being. SO, your willingness to confront your vulnerabilities and express your innermost thoughts and feelings is a testament to your strength and courage. A deep reflection on the human experience. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Ink Empress May 13, 2024 at 7:23 AM Very well woven poignant poem this is , depicts how one feels when misunderstood and unseen and labeled as all that which they arent as well as when they feel like they arent a priority! I know that feeling and its good that you can express such emotions! I especially thought his metaphor hit hard “ I'll always be a tree for you to shelter, although you have taken each and every leaf. When you are lost in the wilderness, I'll be the compass to guide you home” selfless nature of this individual despite all that which belongs to him being taken away. So well delivered! I love that song! My fave breakupsong it has been always! Sending you light always! Best wishes for the contest

Ayesha Iqbal May 13, 2024 at 5:35 AM Oh how I felt your words here deeply... I don't know why this poem made me tear up, this part made my heart heavier "I know I'm not a priority, I'll always be second best, but all I ask is to walk with you in fields of fairness and, maybe, just to be loved - even in small doses." Loved your poem, and I hope you are doing well brother? Silent One May 13, 2024 at 5:39 AM Thank you my sweet sister, I appreciate your empathy and understanding... this is mainly fiction though :)

Curie Stark May 12, 2024 at 8:54 PM This ache will subside once you find what truly makes you smile in the middle of the day......wishing all best wishesh

Sotto Poet May 12, 2024 at 6:14 PM A sense of vulnerability, tiredness, and being ignored or undervalued are central to this wonderful poetry, Dear SO. Still, I disagree, because you explore complex themes like masculinity, forgiveness, emotional issues, and the need for love and acceptance. To describe that internal conflict, you utilize a combination of expressive and evocative language. The words "tired," "tears," "nightmares," "silence," "vulnerability," "heartache," and "sorrow" all conjure up images of heavy and emotionally exhausting feelings.

Crystol Woods May 12, 2024 at 4:00 PM Powerful, Silent One. So powerful and vulnerable. I think I'll need to reread this a few times before I offer any detailed feedback...as it's left me somewhat speechless... so many feelings but no words. Thank you for sharing your gift. Xo

Duke Beaufort May 12, 2024 at 2:54 PM SO, it is amazing to think of what we thought we had to be or do....or wanted at one time in our lives. You point out a lot of doubts that are common to many of us including yours truly. lol!!

Paula Goldsmith May 12, 2024 at 12:41 PM WOW!! I don't know what I like the best here. I guess all of it. You wear a special crown for words/writing. I have not seen red rain but bet it could come any day. "Good Luck" Have a fun day/week writing away..................