On Second Thoughts By David Kavanagh

Listen to poem:
By David Kavanagh


On second thoughts
When instinct becomes 
an educated guess
And improvisation 
demands quick redress
Like thinking on one’s feet
if too drunk to stand
Be found all at sea
throwing up on dry land

Twisted situations 
we find ourselves in
When bundles of joy
reek original sin
Smack on the butt
for showing a bit of cheek
Do everything perfect
get labelled a freak

Gestures, signals, 
often appear to confuse
High five or fist bump 
sweaty handshake defused
One or two fingers: 
the bird a sign of peace
Kneel with respect 
submissive purr on a leash

Diversions, promises,
never black and white
Passive aggression
silent treatment for slight 
Jack in the box, ripper 
jumps out with a knife
Break a leg, for the 
performance of his life

Police warning: never 
mess around with guns
Gut reaction sparks a 
stampede, or the runs
Playing it very cool, 
whilst feeling much heat
Praying devoutly, 
burnt at stake for deceit

Sticking out one’s tongue 
in contempt, no a kiss!
Sigh of relief 
they were just taking the piss
Such is living, such is death 
come friend or foe
On second thoughts 
syllabic verse, or sh!tshow

By David Kavanagh 
hms

Copyright © | Year Posted 2025



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

Date: 9/5/2025 6:02:00 PM
so glad you set this one to music too Jerry, you are so kind doing this I know how much it boosted my spirits with you setting 2 of mine to music and it was a lovely surprise! you are so talented! hugs jan xx
Login to Reply
Date: 9/5/2025 3:06:00 PM
Fantastic, Jerry. Love the tempo. Thanks!
Login to Reply
Date: 9/5/2025 3:03:00 PM
Haha that was fun Jerry, thanks so much for taking the time to develop my poem into a hip hop piece, you inspire me to add bridges between stanza’s, for maximum effect, I’d no idea Lin’s comment would turn my poem into a rap inspired song, still I’m always delighted to experiment with something different, thanks again, cheers David
Login to Reply
Curtis Avatar
Jerry T Curtis
Date: 9/6/2025 5:51:00 AM
Thanks David if you want we could do another. Write one and point me to it
Get a Premium Membership
Get more exposure for your poetry and more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Radiant Verses: A Journey Through Inspiring Poetry