what to do with silence

what to do with the silence?
Why count the days that pass?
We are only afraid of our watches,
Our houses protect us from the rain,
Our cars cross the beautiful Arizona,
Our gardens don’t need mirrors
We are only afraid of our watches,

Mangoes nourish jealous poets,
The peasants cultivate the rice fields,
Why count the days that pass?
We are only afraid of our watches,
That of the sun, What does the sun consume?
Six hundred million tons of hydrogen per second.

What to do with silence? Offer it to the desert,
Offer it to the cats, to the roses of the garden,
To the young girls lowering their eyes,
Offer it to the blue sky, to the giant fig trees,
Why count the days that pass?
We are only afraid of our watches,

Why count the days that pass?
Let’s not be afraid of peony fields
We are only afraid of our watches,
What to do with the silence? Offer it to the horses,
To snails, camels, wines,
We would no longer be afraid of our watches.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

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

Rodrigues Avatar
September 21, 2025 at 3:08 PM
Our gardens don’t need mirrors We are only afraid of our watches… Mangoes nourish jealous poets…your imagery is impeccable xx…sigh…
George Avatar
September 19, 2025 at 11:29 PM
We needn't be worried of our watches and of passing time. Enjoy every moment. When we have everything for a secure life, why stay silent. Cast silence to the winds! Well said, dear Yaan.
Hind Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 12:59 PM
You really made a good point there. "We are only afraid of our watches"
Poet Avatar
September 18, 2025 at 8:12 AM
I find it fascinating how you blend desert-specific features with those from other locations. Your literary style is truly one of a kind, Yann.
Buhagiar Avatar
September 16, 2025 at 1:03 AM
I send hours in silence watching the computer. My carer wants me to talk but I remain silent. Least said soon mended.
Upadhyay  Avatar
September 15, 2025 at 7:41 PM
This is so thought-provoking and lyrical , the repetition carries a heartbeat, and the images bloom with both mystery and tenderness. It turns silence into a gift, something to be shared rather than feared. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Dietrich Avatar
September 15, 2025 at 9:19 AM
So interesting how you combine elements of life not found in Arizona with those of other places or deserts. You are very unique in your poetic style.
Kendrick Avatar
September 15, 2025 at 4:10 AM
Interesting lines you have penned. Sometimes we need to leave the watches at home or when home put them in the jewelry box. Sara K
Andresen Avatar
September 15, 2025 at 1:50 AM
- We have so much noise in our world that's why we must enjoy the silence... let the clock run its course... we cannot change time... an interesting poem skillfully written, Yann :) - hugs
Wolf Avatar
September 14, 2025 at 7:40 PM
You certainly have developed a unique style, Yann. Wow. ~ gw
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