Notes About The Poem
Seeker's Unintended Innuendo Contest
                   May 5, 2025

Unintended Innuendo

Line of inquiry:

“as we passed her she did wilt
which caused in us sense of guilt
since our stance perhaps did cause
to put her heart’s joy on pause

though we’re gentle, not hostile
we diminished her soul’s smile
since our aura as she viewed
scent of love did not exude”
         ~ Unseeking Seeker
    ******************

Are we perceived as hostile beings
by flora that we tend in our gardens?
If we intimidate petals of peonies
each time we walk past their stems,
we should make amends and ask for pardon.
Is the pink tint of their blush mistrust of us?
Withering zinnias and wilting wisteria!
We wouldn't want to burden them with fear
when we speak of how lovely they'd look
in a crystal vase, set upon our parlor mantle.
To ease their worry and not cause their tears,
in our pockets, we don't carry pruning shears. 

We personify flowers as if they have feelings—
but do our innuendos have that effect on people?
We label shy ones as loners or 'wall flowers' 
who pull back, often going unnoticed for hours.
Do some of us unintentionally cause that reaction?  
If this proves true, we need to take a moment
to have in depth contemplative consciousness,
a change in our stance and make an atonement
if it's determined we're at fault— guilty.
If so, our aura indeed has need of correction.
One that shows us emanating a kinder reflection.

The one who wilted as we passed by—
was she the shrinking Violet we refused to see?
Would we bring her heart joy if we paused 
and spoke to her with a gentle greeting?
Words that would give the fragile one cause
to not think of us as hostile and vile?

If a kind word is spoken with a sincere smile
wouldn't those greetings be worthwhile?
It's plausible that we'd then have a pleasant scent,
the treacly aroma of consideration and love.
Time taken to say, 'hello' would've been well spent.

Hold out a hand as a metaphorical invitation to dance.
It might give a wallflower the confidence and the chance
to stand tall and no longer cringe at being approached.
If we've been at fault for diminishing the smile in souls,
offer them emotional strength. Be someone who consoles.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025


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Date: 5/22/2025 12:15:00 AM
Dear Linnersz, i dont think iv read something so wise so beautiful and soul warming in a while on a theme like this, youv used such brilliant analogies to depict and explain and get readers to ponder upon the line of enquiry, which is very impressive and so moving for the eyes and soul! I really love the lines "We label shy ones as loners or 'wall flowers" such wisdom! Wow! And "If we intimidate petals of peonies each time we walk past their stems, we should make amends and ask for pardon." it does not hurt anyone to accept mistakes, ask for forgiveness, forgive another, offer a kind hand, or to simply just be nothing but warm to all even the unkind ones that are often lacking love in their life and craving for light and love that the emptiness within longs for! A very thoughtful and soulful poem that deserves a fave! Congratulations on your top win in seekers contest! Well deserved really
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Lane Avatar
Lin Lane
Date: 5/22/2025 4:58:00 AM
Dear Ink, you see those traits in these lines because your eyes are open to seeing things the same way I do. You are a benevolent woman, tender-hearted and believing that people are to be afforded the benefit of doubt and second chances. Forgiveness is a must if we are to be forgiven. We all appear as peonies to you, and you strive to protect every petal. Thank you for being such a kind soul. ;-)
Date: 5/5/2025 2:22:00 PM
This is such a gentle and thoughtful reflection, Lin. The way you wove empathy into both flora and human connection is so beautifully done. I especially loved “We personify flowers as if they have feelings— but do our innuendos have that effect on people?” and “Hold out a hand as a metaphorical invitation to dance” — so profound. A fav for me : )
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Lane Avatar
Lin Lane
Date: 5/7/2025 3:07:00 AM
I'm delighted to read your gracious comments, Billie. Thank you for your kind words as well as for faving this one. ;-)
Date: 5/5/2025 9:43:00 AM
Lin, I'm in agreement with what Tom says! The way you personify the flowers and then talk about wall flowers might be a good way to get someone to think about how we all relate to each other. I think each of us can try to do better at observing and interacting with our environment. The whole planet is in dire need of the right kind of attention. I have to stop walking around with shears in my pocket! We all should metaphorically. Smiles!!
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Lane Avatar
Lin Lane
Date: 5/5/2025 9:56:00 AM
Yes, please take them out of your pocket... you may end up cutting off one of your stems. ;-) I didn't know what to do with this theme but Seeker's line about wilting made me think of flowers, then wallflowers, so one led to the other. I'm never clear about what path Seeker wants entries to walk, but I know it'll always be a good one. Thanks so much for spending time reading me today.
Date: 5/5/2025 7:26:00 AM
So true Lin, the joy is in giving, it costs you nothing and can make someones day. Love your use of metaphors. Good luck in the contest. Tom
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Lane Avatar
Lin Lane
Date: 5/5/2025 9:53:00 AM
I always open notice of a comment and expect to see your face, Tom. You know I'm grateful that you have encouraged and supported my poetry for years.
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