Jesse Zerlaut Poet Free verse

My Worst Critic

Alas, you do not know me at all. You think you do, and shame on you for it. We've been by this time and again, you and I. Will you ever cease?

Of all those who run me down.. You, oh it is you who have done it best. My hope you know.. And I know you know, is that you'll see you for you.

You've partaken my hospitality, the bread of my table you supped and were it not for such civilities I'd have shed you years ago.

You who have slept below my roof, shared my homes warmth, enjoyed the pleasure of my time. You of all who repay kindness with harsh criticism.

You interject when friends compliment me, you discredit all their words. And as a thief, you would rob me of simple joys and dignity.

You patronize me and whisper seeds of discord within my thoughts. You've been lurking all the while, in my discomfort you take pride.

I'm done with you, You have nothing left I wish to hear. In fact, I'm quite done talking back at you.... within this bathroom mirror.

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Shane Thacker August 18, 2024 at 11:27 AM This poem is absolutely incredible! It's something I believe we can all relate to, but all struggle to express. The way you've captured the hindrance of self-deprecation is hauntingly beautiful. ..and familiar. Excellent poem, Jesse! Jesse Zerlaut October 30, 2024 at 5:09 PM Thank you, Shane! I was at a low moment when I told myself I couldn't do something, then realized only I was holding myself back, no one else.

Old Buck July 8, 2017 at 3:55 PM Jesse: Several years ago, I wrote "The Mirror Never Calls My Name" I would send you a copy if I knew how? It's similar yet very different. Thanks for sharing you thoughts with me and the rest of the soupers. oldbuck Jesse Zerlaut July 8, 2017 at 9:27 PM I'd love to read it, Buck. Thank you for taking the time to check in. Is it something already on Poetry soup?

Anil Deo April 8, 2017 at 9:23 PM Jesse, a bold poem, baring all. (My church teaches U did the right thing: speak to the spirit of darkness and negativity, commanding them to scram, in Jesus' name. Jesus gave us more authority than we know - See Matthew 28-18,19,20. Shalom my Brother in Christ. Anil Jesse Zerlaut July 8, 2017 at 9:29 PM Thank you for your thoughts on this, I get email letting me know when someone responds to my poetry. I saw Buck respond to some of mine before I left for vacation but I never saw your response till now, sorry! thanks for reading.

Scott Thirtyseven March 4, 2017 at 6:11 AM Nicely written. The way you draw the reader in, to that rewarding last line. Jesse Zerlaut March 4, 2017 at 7:19 AM thank you, Scott. :)

Becca Teagan February 24, 2017 at 8:26 PM This says it all. we are often our own harshest critique, I know this is true for me. well done. Jesse Zerlaut February 25, 2017 at 2:43 PM thank you Rebecca :)

Maureen McGreavy Pigeon Tart February 24, 2017 at 11:06 AM So familiar with that abusive relationship with oneself I can absolutely relate. Excellent write, drawing the reader in to your space, well done! 7 and bless xomo! Jesse Zerlaut February 24, 2017 at 5:50 PM Something I battle with often. Especially when it comes to writing.