Sacrificial Lamb

Not all news of its existence brings joy – 
a heartbeat is denied the trumpets
instead, news is shared in long drawn 
out breaths with eyes that never dry. 

A vow was broken long before – 
Those nights, when they turn off the light 
a silence is broken amidst long sighs. 

A creature of habit learns in time certain 
vested interest will come to be expected; 
promises are forgotten in the dark. 

But this is unexpected news; now the light 
need no longer be turned off every night. 

The weeping stops when a decision is made; 
she finds that self-sacrifice does not extend 
beyond the sanctity of life. A creature 
of habit learns hypocrisy the hard way. 


After:  Twilight Confidences by Cecilia Beaux 1888


For Debbie Guzzi's Ten Pictures, Ten Poems, Ten Days - Painting 7
Kim Patrice Nunez
14 January 2016
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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Nope Avatar
March 17, 2016 at 12:38 AM
This is a meaningful poem that makes you think. Very nice work.
Lindley Avatar
February 9, 2016 at 11:29 PM
Sorry my friend, I thought I had already commented on this fantastically composed poem! My memory loss and its effects had me thinking I had. Truly deep and exceptional work!A7
Callus Avatar
January 17, 2016 at 3:51 PM
Your imaginative creativity had a field day here, Kim! You have tackled this challenge with abundant enthusiasm. Enjoyed reading not only this poem, but also the comments below! ~ Hugs // paul
Beaufort Avatar
January 17, 2016 at 11:09 AM
Sounds like a big oops was committed, but then; who is perfect?
Muideen Avatar
January 16, 2016 at 7:50 AM
That is what makes you... you Kim. You never fail split your wonderful ink. Great write........A.M.
May Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 8:24 PM
Your words reveal the mystery ...well penned Kim
Dietrich Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 7:14 PM
hmmm, am wondering if that title is the title of the picture itself. it's gotta be! I hope I interpreted the story you came up with correctly!
Dietrich Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 7:13 PM
ohhh, you have me wanting to know the story of Cecilia Beaux so I can know this secret! I LIKES this.
Nunez Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 7:52 PM
The painter's story does not provide any clue for the painting, Andie. My take came from the painting's curious title, the expressions on each face and the background (wearing a habit by the sea?).
Onclaud Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 10:18 AM
a tearing, pensive write that moves me through your languid expressions, kim... i say'wow.'.. huggs
Andresen Avatar
January 15, 2016 at 9:17 AM
- A deep, touching and lovely poem - Impressive as always, dear Kim - Best wishes for a beautiful weekend - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
Guzzi Avatar
January 14, 2016 at 7:30 PM
This is what it said to me [what you wrote] the two are whispering about the birth of a child, and either they are happy for the childs birth and/or they are both happy & sad because they will never experience birth or having a child of their own. Perhaps also, someone is having his way with them in the dark of night & they have no recourse except to submit or leave. Perhaps she commits suicide, or tries? anyway I enjoyed the thought process! Light & Love
Boddie Avatar
January 14, 2016 at 6:57 PM
we often sacrifice....happiness for a wealthy Life....but money doesn't guarantee joy....in fact, it can inspire situations that annoy....because more problems arise with every fortune made....because false friends will come every time you get paid....very inspiring as always kim....;)
Vaso Avatar
January 14, 2016 at 6:55 PM
This Kim is spectacular! I am in awe, and for sure this is a Fav, there is no words to do this poem justice! :)
Vaso Avatar
January 14, 2016 at 7:11 PM
A visit? Why this poem would merit a marriage! :)
Smith Avatar
January 14, 2016 at 6:43 PM
A sad tale Kim. I feel for her.
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