Notes About The Poem

Any Topic Any Form Contest by Sotto Poet ~ 9/15/23

Paranoia

In depth and breadth of shadows, it prowls around
always flowing, wafting on air, ne'er making a sound
It exists in dejection and rejection, and always found
in silence, too loud when its raucous echoes resound

No deafening roar of blaring thunder comes with fear
It's audible only in a mind, but muzzled to each ear
Manifested in visions, without guttural words to hear
The threat it poses in a reverie wears an implicit jeer

Solitude exhales a stale breath with eager anticipation
Quietly seducing our trust with mendacious flirtation
Spawned to be the covert wielder of our denigration
A stealth mute, besotted on doubt as a form of libation

"Take heed, people!" It screams at us without a tongue
In song the tune is hummed; the lyrics never to be sung
Anguish, leaking acid in which toxins are cleverly sprung
Disguised as a protagonist, paranoia's qualms are flung

It watches without eyes, trying to keep us in disarray
An ever lingering specter, hovering wherever we play
In reticent whispers, how deftly it schemes to betray
A taunting voice without curses, a message to convey
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Schatz Avatar
September 17, 2023 at 3:28 AM
Damn! That's frightening! Love it! Not a spare word anywhere...
Lane Avatar
September 17, 2023 at 11:17 AM
Hello, Robert and thank you for your encouraging comments!
Flood Avatar
September 16, 2023 at 3:21 PM
Remember, Lin, ‘Just because you think they’re out to get you… doesn’t mean they aren’t!’ Hmmm… you probably didn’t want to hear that. What a stupendous write. Love it
Lane Avatar
September 16, 2023 at 4:33 PM
Lol you are such a boost to everyone who enjoys your humor, Terry. There’s nothing anyone can write that would bother me anymore. I’ve become immune to sarcasm. Thanks, Deputy Terry.
Connelly Avatar
September 16, 2023 at 4:27 AM
I'm looking over my shoulder while I type this comment Lin. Wow such a poem you have here!!! Wonderful language woven perfectly. Harkens me back to the sonorous sounds of Poe's nevermore. This is so great Lin. Thank you
Lane Avatar
September 16, 2023 at 5:15 AM
Good morning and thank you, Jeff. That's quite a lot of compliments, and I thank you for each one, especially the comparison to the slightest hint of Poe. I think he was a genius and can't imagine what wonderfully dark treasures he would've written had he not died so young.
Allison Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 6:17 PM
gee Lin this one was deep and scary - the image and imagery freaked me out and as for the image - i hope no one like that ever darkens my door, many congrats on your win:-) hugs Jan xx
Lane Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 8:58 PM
Thanks. I wouldn't want to feel paranoid like some do, always thinking the worst of others. That's freaky.
Poet Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 2:32 PM
Lin, I am truly delighted to offer my sincere congratulations for your well-earned win in my contest. Your poetry is truly awe-inspiring, your ability to convey such introspection is truly commendable.
Lane Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 4:20 PM
You do honor to my entry, Lasaad. I’m always grateful to read your comments and take pleasure in writing for you.
Rodgers Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 11:19 AM
Lin, your poem is a masterful mix of words, weaving together the profound complexity of the human psyche and the subtle, insidious nature of doubt and paranoia. Your skillful use of imagery and metaphor immerses the reader in a world where shadows and silence become the tools of deception. Your ability to convey such depth of emotion and introspection through your verses is truly remarkable and deserving of the highest praise.
Lane Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 11:30 AM
Daniel, I'm pleased to meet you through a comment that humbles me as well as my poetry. I'm honored to receive so many of your complimentary thoughts... each one greatly appreciated. Thank you ever so kindly.
Narain Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 11:04 AM
A gloomy view of paranoia. Its tough on people to live with.
Lane Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 11:28 AM
Thank you so very much, Jay.
Koplin Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 10:44 AM
That must be the devil of a problem to live with. Great post Lin.
Lane Avatar
September 15, 2023 at 11:28 AM
Thank you, as ever Mark.
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