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Marionette of Flesh in a Borrowed Dress

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EATING DISORDERS

NEDA: Estimates 9% of the U.S. population, or 28.8 million Americans, will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. ANAD: Highlights anorexia nervosa as having the highest case mortality rate and second-highest crude mortality rate of any mental illness. Reports 10,200 deaths each year are the direct result of an eating disorder – that's one death every 52 minutes. NEDA reports only 27% of those with eating disorders receive treatment.

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Growing up, she often felt like a puppet controlled by invisible strings. She felt manipulated by society's unrealistic standards of beauty and perfection. Her journey with eating disorders became a battle against those oppressive forces, a struggle to reclaim autonomy over her own body and mind.

Please seek out help if you think that you have an Eating Disorder from companies like mine that deal with this disease, for you are not alone.

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD): https://anad.org/about/
Eating Recovery Center: https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/recovery-centers
Pyramid Healthcare https://www.pyramidhc.com/

Blessings,
Daniel

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"Marionette of Flesh in a Borrowed Dress" - Daniel Henry Rodgers The hourglass, a skeletal jester mocks in the tomb's chill Each falling grain an emaciated sigh, "Soon you'll cease to be." The mirror's cold reflection, a Gorgon's ghastly guise A marionette of flesh with vacant... hollow... colorless eyes. The worms, like pallid mourners watch me shrink A marionette of organs, cold and pale, pink. This flesh, a borrowed dress once sprightly Now stained and thin Holds tight the secrets only death can win. This borrowed dress, a shroud where my story's writ In laughter's faded stitch and tear's accusing slit. A map of life etched deep with scars that mar the grain. A raven of fleeting triumphs a pendulum of ceaseless pain. In the shadowed hollows where sorrow resides I languish. marionettes of fate's cruel designs! Each scratch and cut a lament. each tear a bitter sea! Bound by the chains of my... limited mortality. In this borrowed dress, I mourn what could have been... Lost in the convulsion of my own... sin. I am transformed but not redeemed. I am drifting into the void My spirits are shattered and my dreams destroyed. So in the silence of eternity I find my rest Lost in this body of my own... detest. And though this shell a chrysalis soon withers and decays I cast aside the shroud no longer bound or worn. Accept the endless night, where a new self-forlorn is bourne. Transformed a residual relic through the void I fly Suture with stardust catgut, a worn scroll in the sky.

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Crystol Woods

Date: 5/22/2024 3:45:00 PM

Amazing. I love thee imagery of "This flesh, a borrowed dress, once sprightly, Now stained and thin, Holds tight the secrets only, death can win." This speaks to so many who struggle with body image, body dismorphia, and simple insecurities. Thank you for shedding light on the subject. Xi

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/23/2024 9:07:00 AM

Dear Crystol, Your recognition of the deeper layers within my poem touches me deeply. I'm grateful that the imagery connected with you and shed light on many's struggles with body image and insecurities. Your understanding and empathy are genuinely appreciated. Thank you for your thoughtful reflection—poetry's power to illuminate shared experiences. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel

Paige Hind

Date: 5/11/2024 4:14:00 PM

I cannot possible not fav this, it's so raw and potent- a subject that needed you ad your words, amazing work

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/11/2024 6:21:00 PM

Dear Paige, I am grateful for your unwavering support and appreciation for my poem. It's immensely rewarding to know that the subject's rawness and potency resonated with you. Your encouragement reaffirms the significance of lending words to important themes. Thank you for recognizing the power in my work. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Kelli White

Date: 5/8/2024 5:15:00 PM

Now it puts the lotion on. Reminds me of silence of the lambs. Extraordinary poem of such a sad disease, so sad. God bless you Daniel, Kelli

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/9/2024 4:15:00 AM

Dear Kelli, your heartfelt response to my poem on eating disorders means the world to me. Your comparison to "Silence of the Lambs" adds a poignant layer of understanding to the complexity of this illness. Thank you for your empathy and blessings. With many blessings my dear friend, Daniel

Beryl Edmonds

Date: 5/7/2024 6:02:00 PM

A marvellous write on eating disorders Daniel, someone close to me had a comment made to her on her appearance when a teenager, from that day on she developed a problem and survived on very little to eat. Being underweight or overweight is problematic and people need to understand how hard it is for those that suffer either way. Beryl

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/9/2024 5:13:00 PM

Dear Beryl, your reflection hits close to home. The impact of words, especially during vulnerable stages like adolescence, can echo through a lifetime. Your insight into the complexities of eating disorders, whether it's struggling with being underweight or overweight. Understanding and empathy are vital, as is the recognition of the resilience it takes to navigate such challenges. Thank you for sharing your personal connection and shedding light on this important issue. Blessings, my dear friend, Daniel

Janice Canerdy

Date: 5/7/2024 1:45:00 PM

Daniel, you have created vividly descriptive language~~both literal and figurative~~to capture the very essence of this deadly eating disorder. The great singer Karen Carpenter died from complications of anorexia nervosa. The world lost an angelic voice. Janice

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/7/2024 4:38:00 PM

Dear Janice, your insight touched me deeply. Your reference to Karen Carpenter adds a poignant layer to my poem, connecting personal pain to a larger narrative. Your words inspire me to continue exploring themes of loss and resilience. Thank you for seeing the heart of my work. - Blessings, Daniel

Sara Kendrick

Date: 5/6/2024 6:17:00 AM

Yes, it is tragic for a person to suffer from eating disorders be it thin or overweight. There was a young woman here who had anorexia and she had been raped at age 12, but it could go the other way and be obesity in those circumstances. She died a few years back from an impaction. Thanks for sharing this one with us. Sara K

Sara Kendrick
Date: 5/6/2024 7:58:00 AM

I agree, Daniel, we do not know the other person even if we are married to them unless that person lets us know them. Sometimes that is not so easy to get into another's inner turmoil. Sara K

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/6/2024 6:24:00 AM

Dear Sara, Thank you for taking the time to read my poem and for sharing your heartfelt thoughts. It’s indeed tragic to hear about the young woman you mentioned. Her story is a stark reminder of the profound effects trauma can have on a person’s life, including their relationship with food and body image. Eating disorders, whether they manifest as anorexia or obesity, are complex conditions often rooted in pain and suffering. They are not just about food, but about how people cope with their emotions and experiences. Dear Sara, Your comment underscores the importance of understanding and empathy in dealing with such sensitive issues. It should inspire us all to be kind, for everyone we meet is fighting a battle we know nothing about. Thank you once again for your insightful comment. It’s discussions like these that can help break the stigma around eating disorders and encourage those suffering to seek help. - Blessings, Daniel

Andrea Dietrich

Date: 5/5/2024 10:20:00 PM

You so creatively captured the sadness of this tragic situation some women find themselves obsessed with. So glad I never went this direction. I am obsessed with food but have learned to control it with counting calories. Have done that over 50 years now and it never gets easier!!

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/6/2024 6:20:00 AM

Dear Andrea, Thank you. Your resilience shines through. It's inspiring to hear how you've navigated your own relationship with food. Your strength in controlling it for over 50 years is remarkable. Thank you for sharing your perspective and journey. - Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Duke Beaufort

Date: 5/5/2024 7:33:00 AM

Daniel, it's very difficult to comprehend the thought process associated with an eating disorder and very difficult to help those with this type of illness. You do a wonderful job explaining it and expressing the thoughts of an afflicted person. Thanks for this very thought-provoking piece.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/6/2024 6:19:00 AM

Hello Duke, your understanding means a lot. It's a complex battle, but recognizing the struggle brings comfort. Thank you for acknowledging the depth of the piece. - Blessings, my friend!! - Daniel

Joseph May

Date: 5/5/2024 4:47:00 AM

So sad that so many are affected by this illness, "as the grains of sand fall in an emaciated sigh", Powerful write, Well penned

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/6/2024 6:18:00 AM

Hello Joe, your empathy touches me deeply. It's a silent struggle, but your acknowledgment brings solace. Thank you for seeing the power within the pain. - Blessings, My Friend!! - Daniel

Kim Rodrigues

Date: 5/4/2024 5:08:00 PM

Thank the Lord my relative overcame it. When she called me into her confidence, I was so overcome I had to put the phone down. That is a frightening confession! … I languish, marionettes of fate's cruel designs… Suture with stardust catgut, a worn scroll in the sky…It is a type of madness some never recover from. I always think of Karen Carpenter.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/4/2024 5:40:00 PM

Dear Kim, I'm relieved to hear your relative received the support they needed. It's heartbreaking how many suffer in silence, risking irreversible harm. Karen Carpenter's struggle shed light on this issue, though tragically late. Your insights are valued and appreciated. Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Robert Gorelick

Date: 5/3/2024 12:06:00 PM

Daniel, in shinning your light upon the darker corners of eating disorders, you are performing a valued service. After reading her biography "Little Girl Blue" Karen Carpenter's story, I gained insight into the pernicious and misunderstood aspects of anorexia nervosa. It seems our addiction to distorted and agonized thinking are as cruel and brutal as drug addiction. thank you for your post and cogent words. Best wishes, Robert

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/4/2024 12:47:00 PM

Hello Robert, thank you for your kind words and for sharing your insights. Karen Carpenter's story sheds light on the devastating impact of eating disorders, highlighting the complexities and misconceptions surrounding conditions like anorexia nervosa. It's true that the grip of distorted thinking can be as cruel and brutal as any addiction. By raising awareness and fostering understanding, we can offer hope and support to those struggling with these challenges. Your appreciation means a lot. Best wishes to you as well, Blessings, Daniel

Hiba Junaid

Date: 5/3/2024 8:09:00 AM

This is a hauntingly beautiful piece about how a disease takes over one's mind and perception of their body and their soul. I pray to God that any person encountering this disorder can find peace, happiness, and break out of the depression it brings. Ameen. Much love - Hiba.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/3/2024 11:40:00 AM

Dear Hiba, your heartfelt reflection deeply filled me. Thank you for recognizing the haunting beauty in this piece and for your sincere prayer for those battling this disorder. May your prayers bring peace and strength to those in need. Sending you love and gratitude, Blessings, my friend, Daniel

Jasen Ridley

Date: 5/3/2024 6:30:00 AM

This here is brilliant Daniel very Edger Allen Poe in nature. Thank you for sharing this great piece with us. Amazing

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/3/2024 11:33:00 AM

Thank you so much, Jason; you caught some of the Poe-type words in there. If you like Poe you might like my two poems "Rocking Chair" and "Gnarled Shadows. I am very appreciative of your comments. - Blessings, Daniel

Ink Empress

Date: 5/3/2024 4:47:00 AM

Such originality in weaving words, is what makes you stand out! How profound and soulful is this poem, about eating disorders, the title and also the way youv phrased lines throughout is so very catchy and very unique and artistic, depicting how an individual feels the highs and lows of such a challenging disorder. Iv seen so many go through this, and i kno you must have too, and its never easy, and it becomes an illness so bad, especially bulimia, and i guess it is society and how they perceive and place labels on beauty, and what they think beauty is is what leads to this! Brilliant write dear daniel. Pleasure reading this! You touched a very important subject and the way your poem flows with exquisite diction truly is impressive and impeccable! A fave this is for me

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/3/2024 11:37:00 AM

Dearest Empress, your words are always the best uplifting words and they touched me deeply. Thank you for recognizing the complexity and emotion in my poem about eating disorders. It's an often overlooked topic, but your deep understanding and empathy show its importance. It is issues like these that need to raise awareness and support those affected. I just love your appreciation which means the world to me. Thanks for the Fav! Blessings, my dear friend, Daniel

Victor Buhagiar

Date: 5/2/2024 2:23:00 AM

This evokes a sadness beyond compare. I am not a very healthy person and I am eating less but I am sure I will not fall into anorexia. A powerful poem full of great imagery and sadness. Great information.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/2/2024 6:06:00 AM

Dear Victor, your response to my poem touched me deeply. I'm sorry to hear about your health struggles, and I admire your resilience in the face of adversity. Your empathy and insight into the poem's themes of sadness and struggle show your character. I wish you strength and healing on your journey. Thank you for your kind words and for sharing a piece of yourself with me. - Blessings, Daniel

Hilda Greenhough

Date: 5/1/2024 8:40:00 PM

This is a very informative poem. I didn't know it is mental illness to have anorexia. I fav it.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/2/2024 6:02:00 AM

Dear Hilda, I always appreciate your kind thoughts. Many times, those who struggle with this disorder have abuse in their background, which makes it even worse. Thanks again my friend, and many blessings, Daniel

Sotto Poet

Date: 5/1/2024 5:59:00 PM

Dear Daniel, you have written an exquisite verse that centers on death, the fleetingness of life, decay, regret, and the passing of time. Across the poem, you skillfully use descriptive syntax to evoke feelings of melancholy and self-reflection. Using imagery such as "skeletal jester," "emaciated sigh," "Gorgon's ghastly guise," and "pallid mourners" induces a chilling mood. A sense of decay and morbidity increases by the usage of metaphors, which include the hourglass, mirror, marionette, and worms. Your use of metaphor, alliteration, and assonance to heighten the poem's vivid images and profound emotions was superb.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/2/2024 6:01:00 AM

Hello Sotto, your thoughtful analysis of my Eating Disorders poem deeply touched me. Your keen insights into death, decay, and the passage of time reflect a profound understanding of the Eating Disorders of the human condition. Thank you for recognizing the depth of emotion and meaning within the verses. I hope those who struggle with Anorexia and Bulimia are able to get the help they need. - Blessings, Daniel

Mat Ignacio

Date: 5/1/2024 3:33:00 PM

a powerful portrayal of pain, helplessness, and the paralysis of being - wrapped in angst, you have boldly captured the desire to transcend this prison -well expressed

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/1/2024 4:41:00 PM

Dear Mat, your insight cuts to the core of my intentions. Your recognition of the tangled emotions within the lines of my poem speaks volumes. Thank you for acknowledging the yearning for freedom amidst the chaos. Your understanding is deeply appreciated. - Blessings, Daniel

Jan Allison

Date: 5/1/2024 1:56:00 PM

I was hooked by the harrowing imagery Daniel, the opening stanza vividly portrays this condition. Bravo for writing on a subject many shy away from covering. hugs jan xx

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/1/2024 4:40:00 PM

Dear Jan, your embrace of my words warms my heart. Your acknowledgment of the raw honesty in depicting such a challenging subject fills me with promise. It's through understanding and compassion like yours that we shed light on the shadows. Hugs back to you. - Blessings my friend, - Daniel

Deb M

Date: 5/1/2024 1:27:00 PM

Oh my Daniel….what an incredibly captivating haunting write with the most powerful and important message. Anorexia an unbelievably cruel and sad disorder. Wow….a truly masterful poet you are Mr Rodgers! Debx

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/1/2024 4:38:00 PM

Dear Deb, your heartfelt words touched the depths of my soul. Your recognition of the darkness within my poem echoes the struggles many have faced. Your empathy for the torment of anorexia is deeply felt. Thank you for seeing the pain behind the verses. Blessings my friend! - Daniel

Silent One

Date: 5/1/2024 12:19:00 PM

Your poem encapsulates the haunting beauty of mortality and the transient nature of existence. The imagery of the hourglass, mirror, and worms paints a vivid picture of decay and the passage of time, while the metaphor of the 'borrowed dress' speaks to the fleeting nature of life itself

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 5/1/2024 4:35:00 PM

Dear Silent One, Eating Disorders are a huge battle for many Thanks for your understanding of the delicate dance between life and death, encapsulated in the imagery of decay and the ephemeral nature of existence, which mirrors real life through the complexities of mortality. Thank you for seeing the depths of my words. - Blessings Daniel