My Grandmother's Vases

Grandmother kept two large vases high on a mantle
On the front of each was a colonial scene of quality
It was not until we were clearing out her effects
That we discovered the beautiful vases were cracked;
In fact, the backs were largely gone, only the façade
Remained--an illusion for all of her parlor guests.
I loved those vases so; I had no idea they were broken,
Nobody wanted them, so I kept them for myself
In my living room.  Yes, they were imperfect, flawed,
And had no value whatsoever to anyone except me
They became symbolic of the mask we often see
Others wearing, hiding their ugly, torn personality. 

FIRST PLACE WINNER
Written June 13, 2021
For "Writing Prompt - Flawed" Poetry Contest
Sponsored by Constance La France
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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La France Avatar
June 25, 2021 at 4:45 PM
Milt, congratulations on your win in my Writing Prompt - Flawed _ Challenge with your excellent poem. Great use of the required words. I found you poem very emotional and it touched my heart, peace _ Constance
Hankins Avatar
June 25, 2021 at 5:45 PM
Thank you so much, Constance. I enjoyed the contest and was glad that my poem was well-received. Peace to you!
Alex Avatar
June 24, 2021 at 8:37 PM
Such Beautiful Creation. Congratulations!
Hankins Avatar
June 24, 2021 at 9:01 PM
Thanks so much, Christuraj. You are very kind.
Krutsinger Avatar
June 14, 2021 at 5:33 AM
"I loved those vases so; I had no idea they were broken,: This is well described; I like them myself now.
Hankins Avatar
June 14, 2021 at 9:10 AM
Actually, they burned up in the fire that destroyed my grandmother's home when she was in her late eighties. Overheated warm morning stove in her bedroom. She got out safely, but lost everything. Another time; another poem.
Alex Avatar
June 13, 2021 at 2:02 PM
Wow. Such a Narration!
Hankins Avatar
June 13, 2021 at 7:10 PM
Thanks, Chris. It's a true story. Unfortunately, those vases got burned up in a house fire, so I don't have them now.
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