Like Benjamin Button

I wish I could be 
like Benjamin Button
Me oh my 
wouldn’t that be sumthin
My hair would grow thicker 
no longer thin and grey
From winter’s cold December
I’d progress back to May

Stronger much faster 
my body restored
No nursing home for me
I would never be bored.
Enjoying my retirement 
again but in reverse
The best part of it all 
no need for a hearse.

Then back to work life
at the peak of my career
Cash for me to spend
on those who are dear
Life would be much better 
my thoughts growing clearer
My looks would start improving 
as I looked in the mirror

In a matter of years 
I’d be back in school
University days sweet
a time to be cool
Savouring each moment 
stopping to smell each flower
Romance back to innocence
reclaiming youthful power

Then becoming a child 
delightful and free
No more big worries  
or responsibility
I’d go from toddler wobbles
to a baby so sweet
Giggles and tickles
mom rubbing my feet

My earthly needs met
cuddly comfort and love
Affectionate eyes so adoring
looking down from above
If like Benjamin Button 
my life was lived reversed
Would I have lived it better
being it was formerly rehearsed?

Inspired by the movie Benjamin Button staring Brad Pitt.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

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

Raven Avatar
November 8, 2019 at 8:21 AM
Hi Richard, it is a unique concept, living life backwards. I have always meant to watch the movie but as yet, I haven't. Your poetic skill does make this piece sing and if the movie is anything like your wonderful poem, then it shall be worth the watch. Excellent work as always, Richard. This work has been a joy to read. A fav. Have a wonderful Friday. Blessings....Mike.
Ligon Avatar
September 20, 2019 at 9:51 AM
I enjoyed that movie. It's an interesting concept to ponder. Your words are well portrayed on that topic of growing younger.
Lamoureux Avatar
September 20, 2019 at 12:12 PM
Thanks Juliet. ;0)
Brewer Avatar
June 22, 2019 at 12:27 AM
Sounds like a good plan to me, provide that the mind does not change in reverse. I wouldn’t want to revert to the stupidity of youth. Very well expressed in a highly entertaining fashion, Richard.
Lamoureux Avatar
June 22, 2019 at 7:45 AM
Thanks Geoffrey.
Proxenos Avatar
June 18, 2019 at 8:34 AM
Hi Richard - think I have seen this film - he is born as an old man and then his life reverses as he becomes younger and younger until he reaches babyhood! An excellent movie with Brad Pitt. Well penned Richard a great poem. Hugs, Jennifer.
Lamoureux Avatar
June 22, 2019 at 7:45 AM
Thanks Jennifer.
Rodrigues Avatar
May 3, 2019 at 1:29 PM
This one I love, Richard! We would do it all different as we gain back our vitality, really get to know those around us and embrace our first loves...moms, grandmothers, etc...
Lamoureux Avatar
May 3, 2019 at 1:31 PM
Thanks Kim. Hugs Rick
Trifiatis Avatar
April 29, 2019 at 6:01 AM
What a delightful and amusing poem it is my friend, Richard! Have enjoyed its depth and beauty, however, for your information the idea is not Benjamin's Button but that of...Plato, yes, the Greek philosopher who foretells that things would be reversed one day and will happen the way your beautiful poem describes!
Lamoureux Avatar
April 29, 2019 at 8:16 AM
Benjamin Button is the name of the Character in the movie that inspired me to write this piece. Happy to give credit to Plato for the original idea. Thanks for the visit Demetrios.
Sergi Avatar
April 28, 2019 at 5:02 PM
Hi Richard: What a unique turnabout in reversing your life like a present from God. And having the wisdom to stay out of trouble before it begins. Great poetic observation!
Lamoureux Avatar
April 29, 2019 at 8:17 AM
Thanks Ralph.
Riabi Dziri Avatar
April 28, 2019 at 4:15 PM
I have seen the film more than once.. the message is powerful and deep! Your rendition in poetry is captivating! How tantalising to imagine living backward! So pleased to read again your unique poetry, Richard.. my deepest regards and blessings.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 29, 2019 at 8:19 AM
Thanks Besma and blessings to you as well.
Wanter Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 6:04 PM
I didn't see that movie, but I "hear" your poem.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 6:10 PM
Thanks.:0).
Thomas Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 3:48 PM
Wouldn't it be grand?! But then the final line is the key isn't it? ;) You never disappoint Rick.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 5:38 PM
Thanks Flo.
Onclaud Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 12:12 PM
rich, how provoking is this piece... great food for thought!... many thanks for hosting a fine contest... huggs
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 5:38 PM
Thanks Nette, hugs Rick.
Pandit Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 11:17 AM
I enjoyed the read of this brilliant theme..you said it so well Richard...excellent poetry.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 5:41 PM
Thanks Vijay.
Cunningham Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 10:58 AM
Brilliant verse Richard, loved it. Tom.
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 5:41 PM
Thanks Tom.
Romios Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 9:56 AM
Very well penned,Richard and delightful P.R
Lamoureux Avatar
April 27, 2019 at 5:47 PM
Thanks Panagiota.
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