John Lawless Poet Free verse

Missing Person

MISSING PERSON


Saw him sitting on the curb weeping,
pompous parades of the self righteous
passing “his” children – in disgust.

Eyes glistened through the tears
hands trembling as if to control himself
he rose – as if to speak….

was jostled by passersby, cursed at
by glassed in motorists, mocked
by the children on a passing school bus.

Approaching the synagogue
he was rebuffed by the rabbi,
a relived experience.

The churches, gilded doors locked,
advertised Sunday services
and a trip to Fox Woods Casino.

Saw him sitting on the curb weeping
accompanied by a stray dog
that licked the wounds in his hands.


John G. Lawless
10/26/2015

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Harry Horsman October 27, 2015 at 5:40 PM Such plight so prevalent in today's world John, you say it well, you write it well..excellent poem.

Viv Wigley October 27, 2015 at 9:35 AM We are a very judgemental species- spouting forth personal 'truths' without the facts. A gritty piece, John, reminiscent of Luke 16:19-31. If everyone read it ,maybe there'd be a little more sympathy and tolerance. Fine work, mate. Regards, Viv

Monterey Sirak October 27, 2015 at 5:49 AM Wow! Going straight to my favorites! This is powerful, so intense. John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:19 AM thank you Monterey I appreciate your support and input.

Tim Smith October 26, 2015 at 2:51 PM John reading into this I see this man as Jesus. Well done and a 7+++ John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:19 AM Well Tim, it is a thinly disguised metaphor. I often hear people "preach" from behind locked doors. Thanks for the high mark

Afolabi Muideen October 26, 2015 at 2:38 PM A powerful and lovely piece. This is so much interesting and well narrated......love always..........A.M. John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:17 AM thank you for your kind comment Afolabi.

Lin Lane October 26, 2015 at 12:35 PM Very touching, John. Humans and dogs are both animals...which of the two are the most compassionate, which shows the most loyalty? John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:16 AM Thanks for stopping by Lin and for taking the time to read and comment.

Constance La France October 26, 2015 at 10:13 AM John, oh my this is so moving ...7 John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:12 AM thanks for the high mark BW

Julia Ward October 26, 2015 at 9:29 AM I feel as if I know this character by the end of your poem, showing me your write was expressive. My best wishes, Julia, :) John Lawless October 27, 2015 at 8:11 AM Thanks Julia, appreciate your comment