sara Etgen-Baker Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

 

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SILENT PARTNER

SILENT PARTNER* 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Since childhood, you’ve been my shadowy companion.
     Like gravity’s pull, you’re invisible
          always supportive, nurturing my unconfessed desires.

I grew up and found you intoxicating and alluring.
     With your charismatic voice you murmur,
          “Just one more time, just one more bite.”

Over time, you became toxic, speaking only the language of longing,
     Like a siren’s call in the stillness,  
          you drew me to the precipice of my own unraveling.

Together, we’ve navigated this earthly existence.
     I often stumbled when seeking the sacred
          while you pulled at the frayed threads of my resolve. 

Yet in this dysfunctional partnership, lies a truth~
     the Divine whispers, reminding me of redemption’s embrace,
          a grace that comforts me in my failures and weaknesses.

Though you walk with me, my silent partner,
     I see you, my ego, not as a foe, but as a teacher,
          a chance to turn my failures into wisdom. 
 
*Note: This poem was published at Poetry Soup in June 2025 (poetrysoup.com/poem/silent_partner_1740801); I later deleted it. This is my original poem.

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Line Gauthier August 21, 2025 at 7:17 PM Well penned, Sara ~ sara Etgen-Baker August 22, 2025 at 5:08 PM thank you for your complimentary words. color me grateful, Sara

Sotto Poet August 19, 2025 at 9:47 AM Your excellent poem delves into the tangled bond 'twixt self and shadow, a companion both a guide and a weight, shaping the path of growth with gentle hands and heavy chains, dear Sara. It ponders the dual nature of this bond, where the ego's tempting charm dances alongside its bitter sting, ultimately revealing itself as a wellspring of wisdom and chances for renewal. sara Etgen-Baker August 19, 2025 at 5:48 PM thanks, dear Sotto, for your insightful comments. When I was writing this I thought about Jung and his discussions of the shadow side we each possess. I agree, although the shadow stings, wisdom is to be derived (if one's looking). Grateful for your visits and poetic support, hugs from Texas, Sara