If

Do we call it routine this rut that we're in Would we be better off had we made other plans If I'd gone to a dance Another ring on my hand instead of the lake, where our story began If we never had met, if my parents had moved to another small town where a job was approved If you lived in the east If I lived in the west and the rest of the world didn't matter the least If we did what we pleased If we traveled abroad And each day of our life we never sacrificed much Only thought about "I" Never walked down an aisle Never searched for a house Never held a sweet child Never watched a first smile Never walked them to school Never pushed them along Never loved them so much If we never had bills, mounting high as the hills If you never held me If I never held you If we never grew up If we had given up Oh, where would I be? If we hadn't hung on I can't bear to just think of where I would be without you ____________________________________________________________ 8/28/16 Contest: Poetry Unhinged Sponsor: John Lawless

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem.

Please Login to post a comment

Patricia Lawton

Date: 9/29/2016 6:02:00 AM

I like this 'IF' for two short letters it speaks volumes. Lovely Carrie. Thank you.

John Lawless

Date: 8/31/2016 8:07:00 PM

Carrie, The rat-a-tat rhythm added to the effect of the short burst lines. The repetition of certain phrases and words held the poetic drumsticks to their beat. Thanks for participating in the contest

John Hamilton

Date: 8/31/2016 1:48:00 PM

Your writing is always a delight to the senses, and the emotions, and this one struck all the right chords, familiar as the theme is, you put your unique stamp on it. Congrats on a fine placement in a very difficult contest.

Lu Loo

Date: 8/31/2016 1:14:00 PM

Carrie, beautifully written lovely lady :)-luloo

Viv Wigley

Date: 8/30/2016 7:39:00 PM

As my mother used to say, Carrie, " if 'If's' and 'ands' were kettles and cans, there'd be plenty of work for tinkers'. A lovely, wistful write. Much enjoyed. Viv x

Sunita U.D Palawon

Date: 8/28/2016 11:21:00 PM

:D Great reflection on "IF"...GL Sunita

Caycay Jennings

Date: 8/28/2016 9:10:00 PM

I saw the title "If" by your name and was afraid to click on it because your poems, depending on content, often go straight for my tear ducts. And, my premonition was right, Carrie - you got me again. So well done, an old and universal topic presented in a unique way that saddened me and thrilled my poet. Love it. All the best, always ... CayCay