Notes About The Poem

 


For the Wilderness Of Want Poetry Contest of Ink Empress

On Finding the Rose Wilderness

I had wandered in 
~the wilderness of want,~
searching for what or who
might slaughter
   my shadows of desolation,
for everywhere I turned,
 silhouettes of ghastly gloom
         crept   up   on  me,
 seeking to swallow my spirit
                whole.

Beyond the towering pines,
   I chanced to spy
a clearing of lush green grass
    and thriving thickets
          of woods’ roses.
I imagined their 
         blushing petals
 against my craving skin
   and their beauty
          filling up my soul.
How I yearned to ~wake
   within the rose wilderness.~
and to be touched by
    the source of the light
   which shone down
           all around 
             and now . . .

I have abandoned
        the wilderness of want!
No sinister shadows lurk here
      where I’m abiding.
  Peace illuminates
        this place 
        where I breathe 
         sweet blossomed perfume.
 Heady with hope,
     I revel in reverencing
          a radiance
 of perfect pearlescence.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2026

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Hind Avatar
September 29, 2026 at 7:52 PM
beautiful work, Andrea <3
Onclaud Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 4:26 PM
are you sure you're not into free verse? this write is solid, infectious, andie!
Dietrich Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 5:25 PM
Thanks, Nette. I have been trying to be better with free verse. There are so many here better at it!!
Rolland Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 4:22 PM
there was some despair at beginning of the poem, i love your creativity and messages, wishes
Bayles Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 7:36 AM
Great alliteration, Andrea, on a journey of hope.
DiMino Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 2:59 AM
Indeed, a positive mental attitude, changes distances to embraces, and gives us thornless rose bushes. If I get up there, I will talk to God about that last one. Great, uplifting advice. Well done, Andrea.
Godwin Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 1:33 AM
LIKE. I am as close to speechless as one can be while commenting. Amazing entry for the contest, amazing sans contest. The alliteration is 'perfectly' effective just as is your 'well' of imagination to draw from. You were born with a great well and I'm so glad you tapped into it in adulthood. It must have been quite eager to be recognized! CayCay
Dietrich Avatar
September 28, 2026 at 2:21 AM
Thanks, Caycay. Finally got a like today!!
Jones Avatar
September 27, 2026 at 11:57 PM
Great imagery Inky will love this! Best wishes for the contest Andrea!🥰
Crandall Avatar
September 27, 2026 at 6:25 PM
Beautiful - you just needed a bright, wild, rose garden!
Rodrigues Avatar
September 27, 2026 at 5:14 PM
Emotive and lovely imagery!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace