One Breath of Liberation

She was crouched
semi collapsed
no one could touch her
a fire of dignity
would raise from her feet
to lift the line of her chin
determination etches new lines
worry brought
the sweat pig headed pain
corrugating furrows
 
soldiering on
striking and slashing
at every obstacle
 
till time had no mind
for her pride
and the spectre
that dogged every fall
every twitch
each scrap of scoundrel death
 
then her eyes fired
when her body could not
her spirit never diminished
even as she jumped up
to brush poppies in heaven
 
radiant inscrutability 
 
she was ready
for the next campaign
and leapt
 
—-
 
dignity made wings
that now, 
soar the stars


in one breath 
liberation
Copyright © | Year Posted 2009

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

Shango Avatar
December 11, 2009 at 8:32 AM
The voice of womanhood mature, the roaring of the lioness, the human at door, the poet may call thee friend ... and friend forevermore ... this is an awesome write
Fraser Avatar
December 10, 2009 at 10:56 AM
I agree with John, Jayne > it is an awesome write >> James
Freeman Avatar
December 9, 2009 at 10:50 AM
Awesome "One breath Liberation" that's all it took for the source to blow soul into us, and I am sure one breath is sufficient to liberate. Smile! Par comment, no I've never read"Jenkins". Panche, who or what are you referring to? Thanks so much for your gracious comments. Sincerely, Love Moses
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