Want

I'm the monkey on your back, I'm the whisper in your ear.
I fill your heart with want, stare, covet and leer.
You think I'm not a part of you, believe that I'm not there.
And then I curl up on your lap and take you unaware.

The cattle always crave to graze the grass beyond the fence.
No matter who the landlord is no thought of recompense.
Likewise the dog will gaze upon the bone chewed by his mate.
It must be worth more than mine, no reason for him to wait.

You think that you are the one who is always in control.
Insidious as it may sound I can get to you, right to your very soul.
Incongruous it really is I don't like to be known.
I plant the seed, water it and wait until it's grown.

I'm sure you've worked out who I am and the work I can perform.
You convince those close to you and even yourself, that you do not conform.
I make you wish you had it all, then drop you feeling empty.
I'm not your friend, compatriot, you know my name is envy.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

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

Cresswell Avatar
November 20, 2017 at 11:32 AM
I Envy seems to fade as one aes. Perhaps because we have had a chance to see the outcome of the green grass.
Walker Avatar
June 29, 2017 at 11:57 AM
Found this wonderful write by accident on 'best of all time' list. I love the way you describe it (envy) ... the cattle wishing to graze beyond the fence ....... as in the grass is always greener on the other side. Envy can be dangerous to nurture ........ it is NOT your friend, as you stated. :)
Emu Avatar
June 29, 2017 at 4:32 PM
Thanks Lenna for your kind words and visit to my poetry
Ricci Avatar
May 29, 2017 at 11:43 AM
Good Afternoon Craig. Wow. Take a bow. Well done and expressed. Envy is such a big word as is want. This entry is solid. Thank you for sharing. It appears to be well thought out and executed. Enjoy the afternoon.
Emu Avatar
May 30, 2017 at 1:27 PM
thanks Lisa
Bickerstaffe Avatar
December 8, 2015 at 4:47 AM
A simple one word title... but what a wealth of insight you bring to it. Splendidly written with your customary couplet rhyming, powerful phrasing and imagery. Well done again my friend! 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