Together Apart

An ivory brush he runs through her grey tresses,
a flannel, hot water, refreshes her face,
her feelings of gratitude anyone's guesses
he gives a sad smile as she stares into space.
His hands are the guides who will take her and lead her
through myriad functions and chores of the day,
take turns with a cup,knife or fork as he feeds her
calming touch when she rocks, firmly grip when she sways.
No action is taken of her own volition,
arms flop in her lap like a puppet, no strings,
he lives her day for her and needs no permission
for such is the license that years of love bring.
Engaged, dawn to dusk in one-sided conversation,
now sadly resigned to the sound of one voice,
spark of recognition there's no indication
but still he keeps talking, for he has no choice.
Another day over, another year passes,
anniversaries come with no reason to cheer,
there will be no more music or raising of glasses,
Crystal out on display just one soft silent tear.
But the bond that's between them is still strong and unseen,
though their faces contrast,hers is blank, his is kind,
for love is still there to the fore, always has been,
his shines from his eyes, hers is locked in her mind.
Each dab of the flannel, with each stroke of her tresses,
each slow ticking minute through which he must tend,
with these tokens of love every day he confesses,
these bouquets of hearts that are hers 'till the end.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

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

Leiser Avatar
November 12, 2019 at 2:59 PM
Beautiful and poignant write, Viv. Your writing has always been exceptional to me! :)
Inman Avatar
October 26, 2019 at 2:23 PM
What an exceptional piece Viv. My mom was inflicted by old age dementia for many years.
Delaney Avatar
October 18, 2019 at 6:04 AM
Such a beautiful descriptive write about devotion. This bought a tear to my eye. So good to see you writing, Viv. Hope you are not too busy with your ‘naked butler’ job....lol. SuZ
Murray Avatar
September 21, 2019 at 9:14 PM
Very sad. Is this about your wife?
Murray Avatar
September 25, 2019 at 2:00 PM
That's a relief!
Wigley Avatar
September 21, 2019 at 10:37 PM
Fortunately not, Jean, but inspired by a couple I have known since childhood x
One Avatar
September 8, 2019 at 7:59 AM
So great to see you posting my friend, hope you are keeping up with the top floor show.... this an honest poem...
Cunningham Avatar
September 8, 2019 at 2:27 AM
Such a sad reality Viv that we see often. Well written. Tom.
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