Masterpieces Sing

Very brutal by nature my mind can confirm,
Poetry marathoners need a cap laced with wisdom,
To grace the desired seats of battlescarred warriors,
The skillet must still burn hotter than Hades.

Surely Marathons are run with endurance and persistence,
So is this one, for my goals are lofty.
Though I lack great speed, power, and technique,
My oak must stand deep-rooted through the storms.

My drafts litter bins as torn scraps of junk,
Haters blot the ink of my masterpiece.
Negativity weighs on my frail shoulder,
Yet my resolve stands steadfast on aching feet.

But no one can deny good poems their glory.
Like smoke they escape all traps and dissipate,
Clutching throats to make their presence felt.
All I need do is write—and hope.

The songs that masterpieces sing
Are heard by the deaf and sung by the dumb.
Their rhythm washes away the dust of imperfection;
They heal the soul and soothe the mind of sorrow.

So, my pen, fill yourself with ink of perfection.
Write on this paper I lay before you—
Another poem no sponsor can deny the top prize.
Write before the last drop runs dry.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Ashley Avatar
September 21, 2025 at 8:05 AM
Dear Maclawrence, congratulations for your success in Mark's contest with your exceptional and thought-provoking poem. A potent use of imagery and metaphor. Warmest wishes.. ~Susan
Famuyiwa Avatar
September 21, 2025 at 9:35 AM
Thanks Susan.
Toney Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 10:38 PM
Maclawrence, I really like how you’ve written a second meta-poem for the poetry marathon contest. Your first one was fresh and new, and this second one still captures the spirit of the poetry marathon. A Fav poem for me. Congratulations on your top 10 win on Mile 16 of my 2025 Poetry Marathon Contest. Keep your running shoes on, because Mile 17 has already started.
Famuyiwa Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 11:23 PM
I am glad it struck the right chord in your judgment. Thanks as well for making it your fav.
Daniels Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 8:07 PM
Lovely Maclawrence ! Your oak tenacity shines through strongly. You seem to know how to please the assessor. I enjoyed the line > are heard by the deaf & sung by the dumb. Congrats to you & Nigeria.x
Famuyiwa Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 11:24 PM
Lol. I so much appreciate your comment.
Hind Avatar
September 12, 2025 at 7:53 PM
Ah, interesting thoughts. Like "Clutching throats to make their presence felt. All I need do is write—and hope."
Famuyiwa Avatar
September 12, 2025 at 11:52 PM
Paige, I appreciate your beautiful comment.
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