To Be Or Not To Be

A lowly blossom, striving to sustain 
her beauty in the early morning mist, 
the crocus, craving moisture to maintain 
her stoic fight 'gainst winter's iron fist. 
A lowly mollusc slithers 'neath his shell, 
he slowly weaves, and leaves a silver trail, 
antennae primed, and ready for the death knell, 
when sparrows poke and peck his coat of mail. 
Creatures and plants in the midst of the fray, 
searching for sustenance, dying of thirst, 
staving off hunger, say, is there a way 
for them to be blessed, not feeble and cursed? 
   predator, prey, both the weakest and strongest, 
   who will prevail in the fight to live longest?
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

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

Fawcett Avatar
January 7, 2016 at 11:15 AM
I can never resist a good sonnet. Great job. Best wishes, Nigel
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 7, 2016 at 12:26 PM
Thanks again my friend! Best wishes, Keith
Shahein Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:33 PM
Definitely a magnificent sonnet , you nailed it in this one my dear , these are strong and beautiful words, great job and hugs / / :) dalia
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:35 PM
Thanks for your beautiful words! Best wishes to you, Keith
Bauer Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 4:21 PM
i know that i've used this adjective more than a few times for your poems, keith, but i have to use it again - brilliant! i have to thank you for providing your readers with such gorgeous imagery...
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:19 PM
Thanks Nicola! You are too kind... Keith
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:15 PM
Bless you for saying so! and thank you for such a delightful review! Keith
Whatley Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 11:18 AM
Well that is indeed the question. A very profound, existential, and observational piece, Keith. Lovely imagery in this.
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 12:44 PM
Thanks Michael... your kind remarks are much appreciated. Best wishes, Keith
Mcdaid Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:12 AM
beautifully painted keith this breathed in your pen to be or not to be only the strong survive excellent piece
Bickerstaffe Avatar
January 5, 2016 at 6:14 AM
Thanks so much Liam... your kind words are most gratefully received. Best wishes, Keith
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