If Someone Loves You

A cover’s no way to judge a book
The first few words is all it took
To open up the memory chest
Of a dark past so long suppressed.

Like a dog let off its lead
The words are sticks I must retrieve
To read of someone else’s pain
The threats, the violence and the shame.

Lying curled up in a ball
Drunken menace in the hall
Racing heart cannot prevent
Looming shadow, no consent.

Calloused hands move from neck to arms
Leave no bruise or signs of harm
“I didn’t hurt you, you are mine
Say no again, I will next time”.

Each leaf turned brings back a time
When this memoir echoed mine
Tale unfolds upon each page
Tells of horrors, threats and rage.

I can’t take this anymore
Throw the book down on the floor
Sitting reading will not stop
All the heart ache and the rot.

If someone loves you, they won’t do
All these dreadful things to you
No person should endure this hell
Stop it now, it’s time to tell.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

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Loving Iii Avatar
August 20, 2012 at 2:56 PM
this is the best i'll probably read today. your muse had his hand in your hand and it was written magnificently. your pen spoke for many and i will have to fav it for my memories. John Henry Loving III
Lucas-Clarke Avatar
August 21, 2012 at 2:24 AM
John, Thank you for your comments, I haven't not written much lately, but receiving feedback spurs me on.
Andresen Avatar
May 15, 2012 at 12:06 PM
Hi Tricia, waiting for your next poem ! :) :) - love Anne-Lise
Brown Avatar
January 27, 2012 at 8:03 AM
I enjoyed reading your outstanding poetry this morning Tricia. This week has flown by. I hope you enjoy your weekend and find the inspiration to write some more during this time. Love, Carol
Andresen Avatar
January 27, 2012 at 2:10 AM
Very well written Tricia,good poem.- oxox love Anne-Lise
Merryman Avatar
January 26, 2012 at 5:57 PM
Wow! This is a very powerful piece. Well written. Love, Kim
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