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I Need a Cigarette

They’ve been my constant buddies through experiences bad and good And like any close-knit friendships things don’t always go as they should Lately I’ve been coughing and running out of breath Asthma? Emphysema? Cancer? It’s scaring me to death When I run out, I panic like a climber about to fall or a little lost boy looking for his mom at a crowded carnival Though they’ve been my family for over a hundred years— their kinship I regret But through all the suffering that they’ve caused— I need a cigarette!

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Marikate Kingston

Date: 12/28/2021 10:07:00 PM

Hello Robert. I was surfing around tonight and found your poem. Even though I don't know you, I'm glad to learn below that you don't smoke anymore. I just lost my aunt to those "cancer darts" as we used to call them. Your poem was important. Marikate_

Robert Gorelick
Date: 12/29/2021 10:15:00 AM

So many suffered the effects of the 'Coffin Nails' I'm pleased my poem touched you.

L Milton Hankins

Date: 12/15/2021 7:55:00 PM

I feel so sad for you, Robert, if this is true. My Deb smoked her whole life until the cancer took her three years ago. It was a great loss to everyone who knew her, but she continued to smoke as long as she could. I hope you won't.

Robert Gorelick
Date: 12/16/2021 12:37:00 PM

Dear Milton, Thank you for your concern and commiseration. I know how busy you must be sponsoring the contest. I finally quit cigarettes after watching my mother suffocate from emphysema. The addiction ran her life and took her life. The verse is from an autobiographical anthology I've written. Thanks again, Robert