Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Talent
Talent is defined by the Princeton word net as being a “natural endowment (natural abilities or qualities)”, but is talent something you’re merely born with? Or is it something you can develop over time with practice?
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Venus
a goddess full of grace –
born of the pristine sea foam –
she is the protector of love.
fair in face,
she loves to roam
and watch her worship from above.
struck by her son cupid’s arrow,
she finally settled down
to wed her heart’s only true one.
in admiration that doth grow,
her awesome name, like a jeweled crown,
belongs to the second rock from the sun.
born of the pristine sea foam –
she is the protector of love.
fair in face,
she loves to roam
and watch her worship from above.
struck by her son cupid’s arrow,
she finally settled down
to wed her heart’s only true one.
in admiration that doth grow,
her awesome name, like a jeweled crown,
belongs to the second rock from the sun.
The Sun
washing the sky in vibrant rosy hues,
he awakens –
beginning to raise his sleepy head.
climbing a ladder only he can see,
he begins his daily trek
across the clear, azure sky,
lighting the heavens as he does.
although millions of miles away,
he seems as close as any neighbor –
close enough you can feel every one of
his passionate, warm caresses.
even though we often take for granted
his very presence,
it is hard to deny all the love
the sun provides to us everyday.
he awakens –
beginning to raise his sleepy head.
climbing a ladder only he can see,
he begins his daily trek
across the clear, azure sky,
lighting the heavens as he does.
although millions of miles away,
he seems as close as any neighbor –
close enough you can feel every one of
his passionate, warm caresses.
even though we often take for granted
his very presence,
it is hard to deny all the love
the sun provides to us everyday.
Saturn
a mountainous titan of a man with
a callous, frigid nature,
he swalloed his own children at birth,
trying to outwit fate.
outsmarted by his cunning wife,
one child was allowed to live –
bringing the fulfillment of prophecy
and a horrific end to an era.
to remember this man –
father time he is called by some –
they gave his infamous name
to the sixth planet from the sun.
and to see that he never lacks
for the company he always had near,
saturn’s moons and satellites are named
after the rest of his dying family.
a callous, frigid nature,
he swalloed his own children at birth,
trying to outwit fate.
outsmarted by his cunning wife,
one child was allowed to live –
bringing the fulfillment of prophecy
and a horrific end to an era.
to remember this man –
father time he is called by some –
they gave his infamous name
to the sixth planet from the sun.
and to see that he never lacks
for the company he always had near,
saturn’s moons and satellites are named
after the rest of his dying family.
Sagittarius
a noble creature with a gentle soul,
he lives in a land full of strife.
pure of heart with eye of coal,
he leads a quiet life.
skilled in many fields, including theology,
everyone know his name – of course.
Teaching heroes of Grecian mythology
was this half-man, half-horse.
wounded with a poisoned dart,
this immortal creature could not fully heal.
not even teaching his beloved music and art
could this immense pain steal.
given the chance to change one’s fate,
he traveled down charon’s way.
he was chained to a cliff where an eagle ate
his rejuvenated liver every day.
he was not forced into this action –
he went merely because he could.
so zeus placed Chiron in the stars’ devotion
to always remind of others of his good.
he lives in a land full of strife.
pure of heart with eye of coal,
he leads a quiet life.
skilled in many fields, including theology,
everyone know his name – of course.
Teaching heroes of Grecian mythology
was this half-man, half-horse.
wounded with a poisoned dart,
this immortal creature could not fully heal.
not even teaching his beloved music and art
could this immense pain steal.
given the chance to change one’s fate,
he traveled down charon’s way.
he was chained to a cliff where an eagle ate
his rejuvenated liver every day.
he was not forced into this action –
he went merely because he could.
so zeus placed Chiron in the stars’ devotion
to always remind of others of his good.
The Pleiades
seven beauties born from
the same titan of a man –
they lived a life of
freedom and casual ease.
pledged to follow a
single cause and a sole leader,
they frolicked in the forest
all their days.
frightened by a stranger,
a handsome man never before seen
by these sisters,
they pled to their goddess for salvation.
turned to snow white pigeons,
they flew up and up
until they took their places in the stars.
the same titan of a man –
they lived a life of
freedom and casual ease.
pledged to follow a
single cause and a sole leader,
they frolicked in the forest
all their days.
frightened by a stranger,
a handsome man never before seen
by these sisters,
they pled to their goddess for salvation.
turned to snow white pigeons,
they flew up and up
until they took their places in the stars.
Pisces
a mother and son—
such a lovely pair—
did sit upon the bank,
sunning their skin so fair.
enjoying their lazy day
relaxing in the morning sun,
neither of them knew
of the danger to come.
interrupting their day and
destroying the peace at hand,
a giant rose from the river
and set his heavy foot on the land.
the pair did spy the foe
and for their lives did fear,
so changing into a pair of fish
they jumped into the water near.
to immortalize the event and
remind those near and far,
athena took their new forms
and placed them among the stars.
such a lovely pair—
did sit upon the bank,
sunning their skin so fair.
enjoying their lazy day
relaxing in the morning sun,
neither of them knew
of the danger to come.
interrupting their day and
destroying the peace at hand,
a giant rose from the river
and set his heavy foot on the land.
the pair did spy the foe
and for their lives did fear,
so changing into a pair of fish
they jumped into the water near.
to immortalize the event and
remind those near and far,
athena took their new forms
and placed them among the stars.
Orpheus and Eurydice
two young souls,
star crossed though they may be,
entwined in the glorious sky.
a fair young man
born of noble parents and
blessed with music in his soul.
a fair young maiden
true of heart and
virtuous in spirit.
two young people
brought together with love
and blessed with much happiness.
their union was true,
blessed with virtue, passion,
and an undying, all-consuming love.
cut short by her untimely demise,
he pined away for her
day after day, year after year.
he implored the gods
to let his beloved return to him,
fulfilling his fondest desire.
granted this wish,
he led her from a lonely eternity,
his heart bursting with anticipation.
foolish enough to mistrust his gods,
he looked back before they were home,
losing his love once again.
overcome with grief,
his instrument and voice fell silent
ultimately causing his own demise.
now together in paradise,
these lovers want for nothing and
they vow to never part.
and in the stars hangs a lyre,
his instrument of choice,
as an ever-present reminder of their tale.
star crossed though they may be,
entwined in the glorious sky.
a fair young man
born of noble parents and
blessed with music in his soul.
a fair young maiden
true of heart and
virtuous in spirit.
two young people
brought together with love
and blessed with much happiness.
their union was true,
blessed with virtue, passion,
and an undying, all-consuming love.
cut short by her untimely demise,
he pined away for her
day after day, year after year.
he implored the gods
to let his beloved return to him,
fulfilling his fondest desire.
granted this wish,
he led her from a lonely eternity,
his heart bursting with anticipation.
foolish enough to mistrust his gods,
he looked back before they were home,
losing his love once again.
overcome with grief,
his instrument and voice fell silent
ultimately causing his own demise.
now together in paradise,
these lovers want for nothing and
they vow to never part.
and in the stars hangs a lyre,
his instrument of choice,
as an ever-present reminder of their tale.
Ode to Polaris
star light, star bright –
seems like i’ve muttered that phrase
a million times or more.
the hope always fresh in my heart,
i have yelled and screamed at you
when no one else would listen.
i have told you every one of
life’s little secrets,
knowing you could tell no other.
i have admired your endless beauty and
basked in your glorious radiance.
just a ball of burning gas –
i've been told time and again –
but star light, star bright,
you have been my very best friend every night.
seems like i’ve muttered that phrase
a million times or more.
the hope always fresh in my heart,
i have yelled and screamed at you
when no one else would listen.
i have told you every one of
life’s little secrets,
knowing you could tell no other.
i have admired your endless beauty and
basked in your glorious radiance.
just a ball of burning gas –
i've been told time and again –
but star light, star bright,
you have been my very best friend every night.
Night Hunter
he stands there at night, strong and proud –
a secret lover who comes to me in the dark,
entering my room through my window and
lavishing me in his attentive, loving
light.
his shoulders are powerful and wide,
his gaze intense in this clear and
endless vista, looking back into my soul.
the stars in his wide belt twinkle
like a child’s eyes on christmas morning.
he hunts his prey alone –
a solitary predator stalking an elusive being,
forever doomed to wander the earth
in a ceaseless, vain
search.
he is orion,
protector of the night sky –
a lone man once proud and vital
now doomed to spend his days
eternally wandering the dark heavens.
a secret lover who comes to me in the dark,
entering my room through my window and
lavishing me in his attentive, loving
light.
his shoulders are powerful and wide,
his gaze intense in this clear and
endless vista, looking back into my soul.
the stars in his wide belt twinkle
like a child’s eyes on christmas morning.
he hunts his prey alone –
a solitary predator stalking an elusive being,
forever doomed to wander the earth
in a ceaseless, vain
search.
he is orion,
protector of the night sky –
a lone man once proud and vital
now doomed to spend his days
eternally wandering the dark heavens.
Milky Way
a tiny babe, innocent and free,
was doomed to a horrible fate.
to falsify an oracle’s vision,
the babe’s siblings his father ate.
His mother frantic – out of her mind –
determined to save her own,
she gave the father a swaddling bundle
wrapped around a large stone.
left upon a mountain side,
the innocent one did rest.
when the dinner bell did call for him,
he nursed from a mother goat’s chest.
the infant grew strong and proud,
his heritage showed true.
then came the time to fulfill destiny
and turn the skies grey from blue.
he fought a battle, long and hard,
with those from whom he came.
he overthrew their cruelties
and slew them one and the same.
Recovering his siblings,
they ascended to a peak on high.
the path they followed in the stars
was a splash of goat’s milk across the sky.
was doomed to a horrible fate.
to falsify an oracle’s vision,
the babe’s siblings his father ate.
His mother frantic – out of her mind –
determined to save her own,
she gave the father a swaddling bundle
wrapped around a large stone.
left upon a mountain side,
the innocent one did rest.
when the dinner bell did call for him,
he nursed from a mother goat’s chest.
the infant grew strong and proud,
his heritage showed true.
then came the time to fulfill destiny
and turn the skies grey from blue.
he fought a battle, long and hard,
with those from whom he came.
he overthrew their cruelties
and slew them one and the same.
Recovering his siblings,
they ascended to a peak on high.
the path they followed in the stars
was a splash of goat’s milk across the sky.
Mercury
just a babe and
already so fair of face,
this nimble young god
could win any race.
with snakes twining up,
he takes winged staff in hand
and delivers to all
godly messages across the land.
inventor of instruments divine
and with a sense of humor sure to amuse,
he strives to teach mankind
practical arts it could us.
with beauty and never-ending grace,
there could be only one.
so for all his good, kind deeds,
he shares his name with the planet closest the sun.
already so fair of face,
this nimble young god
could win any race.
with snakes twining up,
he takes winged staff in hand
and delivers to all
godly messages across the land.
inventor of instruments divine
and with a sense of humor sure to amuse,
he strives to teach mankind
practical arts it could us.
with beauty and never-ending grace,
there could be only one.
so for all his good, kind deeds,
he shares his name with the planet closest the sun.
Mars
as the god of war, he doth strive
to keep the spirit of battle alive.
in the hearts of men across the land,
he renews the lust to keep sword in hand.
with a fiery temper in so important a one,
he lends his name to the red planet – fourth from the sun.
always keeping his true kith and kin very near,
his moons are named for sons – “Panic” and “Fear.”
he continues to amaze, awe, and surprise –
and someday we’ll view his surface with our own eyes.
to keep the spirit of battle alive.
in the hearts of men across the land,
he renews the lust to keep sword in hand.
with a fiery temper in so important a one,
he lends his name to the red planet – fourth from the sun.
always keeping his true kith and kin very near,
his moons are named for sons – “Panic” and “Fear.”
he continues to amaze, awe, and surprise –
and someday we’ll view his surface with our own eyes.
Man in the Moon
you look out the window,
and it’s there…
greeting you like a long, lost friend.
mysterious yet comforting when it’s full,
you anxiously await the night
where you can search for it once again,
just like you did when you were
a wee little babe –
the face of
the man in the moon.
and it’s there…
greeting you like a long, lost friend.
mysterious yet comforting when it’s full,
you anxiously await the night
where you can search for it once again,
just like you did when you were
a wee little babe –
the face of
the man in the moon.
Lyra
a beautiful instrument born
of pure mischief and glee,
the lyre’s lovely sounds haunt
a listener’s heart with a woeful melody.
in the hands of apollo
the lyre’s notes did loudly ring,
but in son orpheus’s hands
the instrument seemed to sing.
his only comfort after eurydice’s demise,
the lyre ultimately caused his downfall.
while strumming a tune full of sorrow and woe,
it drowned out the maenads’ siren call.
ripping the man limb from limb,
they eagerly sever his head.
throwing the body into the hebrus,
they celebrated once he was dead.
to mourn his passing,
the muses great effort gave
to gather all his body’s limbs
and commit them to a grave.
and in remembrance of
this tale of love, pure and true,
zeus placed the lyre for all to see
in the midnight’s inky blue.
of pure mischief and glee,
the lyre’s lovely sounds haunt
a listener’s heart with a woeful melody.
in the hands of apollo
the lyre’s notes did loudly ring,
but in son orpheus’s hands
the instrument seemed to sing.
his only comfort after eurydice’s demise,
the lyre ultimately caused his downfall.
while strumming a tune full of sorrow and woe,
it drowned out the maenads’ siren call.
ripping the man limb from limb,
they eagerly sever his head.
throwing the body into the hebrus,
they celebrated once he was dead.
to mourn his passing,
the muses great effort gave
to gather all his body’s limbs
and commit them to a grave.
and in remembrance of
this tale of love, pure and true,
zeus placed the lyre for all to see
in the midnight’s inky blue.
Libra
lady justice walked the land,
the scales of justice in her hand.
these scales of metal and heavy wood
weighed the balance betwixt evil and good.
she used these scales everyday
to keep people moving on their way—
making sure to keep them on their path
so as not to disturb fate’s aftermath.
to remind those of us believers
of exactly where we are,
the scales were placed in the sky
amongst the night stars.
the scales of justice in her hand.
these scales of metal and heavy wood
weighed the balance betwixt evil and good.
she used these scales everyday
to keep people moving on their way—
making sure to keep them on their path
so as not to disturb fate’s aftermath.
to remind those of us believers
of exactly where we are,
the scales were placed in the sky
amongst the night stars.
Leo
the king of beasts,
full of pride,
the lion of nemea
possessed an impenetrable hide.
the source of legend,
all male villagers tried—
but none could kill the lion
and remove the hide.
as punishment to one,
their king had lied—
claiming that the lion had killed—
and called for that hide.
he sent his cousin,
and our hero vied
to slay the lion and
retrieve his hide.
the hero struggled
and he tried
until, finally successful,
he removed that hide.
and now the lion
goes on a nightly ride
through the brilliant stars
in remembrance of him and his hide.
full of pride,
the lion of nemea
possessed an impenetrable hide.
the source of legend,
all male villagers tried—
but none could kill the lion
and remove the hide.
as punishment to one,
their king had lied—
claiming that the lion had killed—
and called for that hide.
he sent his cousin,
and our hero vied
to slay the lion and
retrieve his hide.
the hero struggled
and he tried
until, finally successful,
he removed that hide.
and now the lion
goes on a nightly ride
through the brilliant stars
in remembrance of him and his hide.
Jupiter
the king of gods – you know him well.
he rules above whilst his brothers rule the sea and hell.
he governs the land with an iron-clad fist –
his worshippers number far too many to list.
with a matronly wife whom doth possess a jealous eye,
he lazily watches for lovers from his throne on high.
for his appetites – some of the largest yet –
they gave his name to the largest planet.
And with moons surrounding its surface so fair,
jupiter never lacks for company there.
named for lovers and friends – even a first wife –
this fifth planet’s moons are the light of its life.
he rules above whilst his brothers rule the sea and hell.
he governs the land with an iron-clad fist –
his worshippers number far too many to list.
with a matronly wife whom doth possess a jealous eye,
he lazily watches for lovers from his throne on high.
for his appetites – some of the largest yet –
they gave his name to the largest planet.
And with moons surrounding its surface so fair,
jupiter never lacks for company there.
named for lovers and friends – even a first wife –
this fifth planet’s moons are the light of its life.
Inuit Moon
with a heart dark
as the blackest night,
he eagerly continues his chase.
through the endless sky
annigan pursues his desire,
hoping to one day win the race.
in love with his sister,
he covets her radiance and
follows her again and again.
until finally needing food
to recharge himself
and anxiously awaiting a new search to begin.
he pursues her bright light
every day of eternity,
never getting ahead.
yet he keeps up
his evil mind game,
hoping to her one day to be wed.
as the blackest night,
he eagerly continues his chase.
through the endless sky
annigan pursues his desire,
hoping to one day win the race.
in love with his sister,
he covets her radiance and
follows her again and again.
until finally needing food
to recharge himself
and anxiously awaiting a new search to begin.
he pursues her bright light
every day of eternity,
never getting ahead.
yet he keeps up
his evil mind game,
hoping to her one day to be wed.
Hydra
a hideous beast with heads numbering nine,
she was put on this earth to plague mankind.
with a visage so gruesome all it took was one stare
to give even the bravest of men a terrible scare.
serving hera loyally throughout her long life,
the creature did cause the grecians much strife.
to battle the monster twas a suicidal task—
the kind of only one hero they could ask.
so the plight of the people hercules set out to end
though many thought twas a fight he would not win.
locked in struggle, the two did fight—
the beast verses our hero’s might.
it seemed his chances held on by a tiny string
when from one severed head two would spring.
just when it seemed he would win not,
hercules found the solution he sot.
with fire in hand and his sword at every turn,
the stumps of the heads he would now burn.
finally left with the beast’s main head,
the hero did bury it, leaving her dead.
and for her service—faithful and true—
she was placed in the night’s inky blue.
across the heavens hydra now does wind
always searching for her next victim on which to dine.
she was put on this earth to plague mankind.
with a visage so gruesome all it took was one stare
to give even the bravest of men a terrible scare.
serving hera loyally throughout her long life,
the creature did cause the grecians much strife.
to battle the monster twas a suicidal task—
the kind of only one hero they could ask.
so the plight of the people hercules set out to end
though many thought twas a fight he would not win.
locked in struggle, the two did fight—
the beast verses our hero’s might.
it seemed his chances held on by a tiny string
when from one severed head two would spring.
just when it seemed he would win not,
hercules found the solution he sot.
with fire in hand and his sword at every turn,
the stumps of the heads he would now burn.
finally left with the beast’s main head,
the hero did bury it, leaving her dead.
and for her service—faithful and true—
she was placed in the night’s inky blue.
across the heavens hydra now does wind
always searching for her next victim on which to dine.
Gemini
two brothers born into the world
as close as they could be –
one the son of a god; the other of a king –
no one could deny their gallantry.
voyaging far from their childhood home,
the two did never part.
though of two bodies,
they shared one soul and heart.
when finally separated by
one brother’s untimely demise,
both were given immortality
and placed in the night skies.
two twinkling stars –
one orange and one white –
the brothers pollux and castor
remain together night after night.
as close as they could be –
one the son of a god; the other of a king –
no one could deny their gallantry.
voyaging far from their childhood home,
the two did never part.
though of two bodies,
they shared one soul and heart.
when finally separated by
one brother’s untimely demise,
both were given immortality
and placed in the night skies.
two twinkling stars –
one orange and one white –
the brothers pollux and castor
remain together night after night.
Eridanus
twisting and turning through the land,
the river now runs dry.
fated as a cruel resting place,
twas where a god’s son must die.
the boy drove his father’s golden chariot,
lighting up the day.
but the horses knew the master not
and broke loose from their reins halfway.
plummeting towards the harsh landscape,
the boy prayed for his life.
but there was nothing Apollo could do,
and it caused the god much strife.
crashing through the murky depths,
the boy’s short life did end.
now the river runs dry on land,
its sandy bottom blowing in the wind.
but it also winds brilliantly
across the midnight sky—
a symbol of where this foolish boy
was fated to die.
the river now runs dry.
fated as a cruel resting place,
twas where a god’s son must die.
the boy drove his father’s golden chariot,
lighting up the day.
but the horses knew the master not
and broke loose from their reins halfway.
plummeting towards the harsh landscape,
the boy prayed for his life.
but there was nothing Apollo could do,
and it caused the god much strife.
crashing through the murky depths,
the boy’s short life did end.
now the river runs dry on land,
its sandy bottom blowing in the wind.
but it also winds brilliantly
across the midnight sky—
a symbol of where this foolish boy
was fated to die.
Draco
he winds his way across the sky,
a horrible creature to spy.
the myths and legends surrounding his life
are as numerous as the humans he caused strife.
some say he’s a dragon who fought
a goddess for the power he sought.
she threw him into the stars so bold
before he could unwind his coils of gold.
others say he met with a hero
who went to legend from absolute zero.
guarding hera’s apples still on the trees,
his life was taken by the fair hercules.
yet others about the world do say
this dragon had the god of war to provide his pay.
he guarded a spring of fresh water
and killed a group of men he not ought to.
whichever legend your mind chooses to kiss,
this dragon’s existence is hard to miss.
his body winds its way across the night sky,
its terrible visage apparent to the naked eye.
a horrible creature to spy.
the myths and legends surrounding his life
are as numerous as the humans he caused strife.
some say he’s a dragon who fought
a goddess for the power he sought.
she threw him into the stars so bold
before he could unwind his coils of gold.
others say he met with a hero
who went to legend from absolute zero.
guarding hera’s apples still on the trees,
his life was taken by the fair hercules.
yet others about the world do say
this dragon had the god of war to provide his pay.
he guarded a spring of fresh water
and killed a group of men he not ought to.
whichever legend your mind chooses to kiss,
this dragon’s existence is hard to miss.
his body winds its way across the night sky,
its terrible visage apparent to the naked eye.
Cygnus
a friendship so deep, abiding, and true,
this lad’s grief an end never knew.
as his friend’s lifeless body plunged into the sea,
he raced to his side hoping the truth not to be.
he held the lad’s body to his breast
and felt a strange tingling in his chest.
as he cried out in anger at the gods above,
his body was transformed in his grief and love.
he was now white as snow
with feathers where his hair once did grow,
and his neck was long and thin.
his voice distorted to a squawk as his cry did begin.
choosing to shy away from man
in his mistrust of all deities like pan,
the swan spent his days
in a grief-filled haze
until his death brought peace to his plight
and his shape being placed within the stars in the night.
this lad’s grief an end never knew.
as his friend’s lifeless body plunged into the sea,
he raced to his side hoping the truth not to be.
he held the lad’s body to his breast
and felt a strange tingling in his chest.
as he cried out in anger at the gods above,
his body was transformed in his grief and love.
he was now white as snow
with feathers where his hair once did grow,
and his neck was long and thin.
his voice distorted to a squawk as his cry did begin.
choosing to shy away from man
in his mistrust of all deities like pan,
the swan spent his days
in a grief-filled haze
until his death brought peace to his plight
and his shape being placed within the stars in the night.
Corona Borealis
a maiden fair from far away,
her life was so filled with woe.
she laid a trap to kill her brother
and win her charming beau.
success attained, she took a vow
to love him throughout forever.
he took her from her childhood home
and commanded she return never.
upon an isle in the sea
the newlyweds did land.
for another woman’s pretty face
he left her alone in the sand.
rescued by a kindly god,
who had been struck by cupid’s arrow,
our maiden did find love again
near the land of the pharaoh.
upon her death, her husband’s grief
no remedy could drown.
to honor her and their love throughout all time,
he did place among the stars her crown.
now we look up in the sky
in never-ending admiration
at ariadne’s corona borealis
as it lights a dark heavenly nation.
her life was so filled with woe.
she laid a trap to kill her brother
and win her charming beau.
success attained, she took a vow
to love him throughout forever.
he took her from her childhood home
and commanded she return never.
upon an isle in the sea
the newlyweds did land.
for another woman’s pretty face
he left her alone in the sand.
rescued by a kindly god,
who had been struck by cupid’s arrow,
our maiden did find love again
near the land of the pharaoh.
upon her death, her husband’s grief
no remedy could drown.
to honor her and their love throughout all time,
he did place among the stars her crown.
now we look up in the sky
in never-ending admiration
at ariadne’s corona borealis
as it lights a dark heavenly nation.
Cetus
a noble creature with a gentle heart,
he spends his days a drift
on the currents of the deep blue sea,
for one so large moving rather swift.
rumoured to be the representation
of a hideous creature from the sea,
this quiet giant surfs the night skies
happy as can be.
he lights our night with a beacon
as large as this celestial whale,
and with the end of night’s fair light
comes the end of my tale.
he spends his days a drift
on the currents of the deep blue sea,
for one so large moving rather swift.
rumoured to be the representation
of a hideous creature from the sea,
this quiet giant surfs the night skies
happy as can be.
he lights our night with a beacon
as large as this celestial whale,
and with the end of night’s fair light
comes the end of my tale.
Cepheus
a regal man who knew
his own heart was true
proved himself to be brave.
by sailing the sea,
it was easy to see
this prince was no knave.
when it came time to wed,
he listened to his heart – not his head –
and married a foolish lass.
the new queen had tendency to boast,
and the gods were most
angered with what had come to pass.
the man begged for his wife –
pleaded to save her life –
and promised to fulfill any demand.
to atone for the queen’s crime,
for his only daughter it was sacrifice time
and only spilling her blood would save the land.
the princess released by a strange lad –
who immense courage he had –
the king was relieved as could be.
but on the day of the vow,
to his wife’s protests he did bow
and forbade the joining to be.
the hero was cross –
our fair king felt the loss
as he and his wife were made stone.
now forever for all to see,
our king resides in the night’s black sea
for the bravery and chivalry he was renown.
with a brilliant crown
and a robe soft as down,
he plants his foot on true north.
his queen by his side,
the night sky he doth ride
as in search of adventure he sets forth.
his own heart was true
proved himself to be brave.
by sailing the sea,
it was easy to see
this prince was no knave.
when it came time to wed,
he listened to his heart – not his head –
and married a foolish lass.
the new queen had tendency to boast,
and the gods were most
angered with what had come to pass.
the man begged for his wife –
pleaded to save her life –
and promised to fulfill any demand.
to atone for the queen’s crime,
for his only daughter it was sacrifice time
and only spilling her blood would save the land.
the princess released by a strange lad –
who immense courage he had –
the king was relieved as could be.
but on the day of the vow,
to his wife’s protests he did bow
and forbade the joining to be.
the hero was cross –
our fair king felt the loss
as he and his wife were made stone.
now forever for all to see,
our king resides in the night’s black sea
for the bravery and chivalry he was renown.
with a brilliant crown
and a robe soft as down,
he plants his foot on true north.
his queen by his side,
the night sky he doth ride
as in search of adventure he sets forth.
Cassiopeia
a beautiful queen full of pride
who never learned her vanity to hide,
she boasted to visitors across the sand
that she was the most beautiful in the land.
forced to atone for her erroneous slight,
the gods demanded a sacrifice to set it right.
but no ordinary life would they take –
only the queen’s child’s blood would their thirst slake.
upon her death – a ghastly sight –
the gods immortalized her in the night.
wearing the bright north star as a crown,
this foolish queen spends half her time upside down
as a reminder to those both far and near
that the wrath of the gods is something to fear.
who never learned her vanity to hide,
she boasted to visitors across the sand
that she was the most beautiful in the land.
forced to atone for her erroneous slight,
the gods demanded a sacrifice to set it right.
but no ordinary life would they take –
only the queen’s child’s blood would their thirst slake.
upon her death – a ghastly sight –
the gods immortalized her in the night.
wearing the bright north star as a crown,
this foolish queen spends half her time upside down
as a reminder to those both far and near
that the wrath of the gods is something to fear.
Capricorn
feasting upon the river’s bank,
bacchus spied the threat.
leaping into waters so black and rank,
the god knew not what to do yet.
seeing the giant appear on the shore,
our hero felt his form change.
preparing for battle with a roar,
he definitely felt a little strange.
ready to defend his divine king –
now half fish and half goat –
this man’s true talent started to sing
as on his pipes he blew a shrill note.
as the giant ran from the piercing sound –
jupiter smiting him so from elysian fields he did bar –
with a gratitude so newly found,
our hero’s new form was placed high as a star.
bacchus spied the threat.
leaping into waters so black and rank,
the god knew not what to do yet.
seeing the giant appear on the shore,
our hero felt his form change.
preparing for battle with a roar,
he definitely felt a little strange.
ready to defend his divine king –
now half fish and half goat –
this man’s true talent started to sing
as on his pipes he blew a shrill note.
as the giant ran from the piercing sound –
jupiter smiting him so from elysian fields he did bar –
with a gratitude so newly found,
our hero’s new form was placed high as a star.
Cancer
a tiny creature with a faithful heart,
he was always eager to do his part.
summoned by his mistress for an evil deed,
the crab sought out a hero destined to lead.
as Hercules strove for the hydra to slay,
the little creature prepared to darken his day.
with pincers and claws as hard as steel,
this diminutive animal nipped the man’s heel.
tragically crushed ‘neath our hero’s large feet,
this faithful servant went, his fate to meet.
as a reward for service so filled with might,
this crab lives forever to light our night.
he was always eager to do his part.
summoned by his mistress for an evil deed,
the crab sought out a hero destined to lead.
as Hercules strove for the hydra to slay,
the little creature prepared to darken his day.
with pincers and claws as hard as steel,
this diminutive animal nipped the man’s heel.
tragically crushed ‘neath our hero’s large feet,
this faithful servant went, his fate to meet.
as a reward for service so filled with might,
this crab lives forever to light our night.
Boötes
normally a gentle man –
a humble herdman by trade –
he ascends to a higher calling,
one providing aid.
while tending his flocks
and striving to reach his goal,
he leads his herd of beautiful stars
about the great north pole.
but if the call should come
and the need does arise,
brave boötes is there to
protect the great bears of the skies.
a humble herdman by trade –
he ascends to a higher calling,
one providing aid.
while tending his flocks
and striving to reach his goal,
he leads his herd of beautiful stars
about the great north pole.
but if the call should come
and the need does arise,
brave boötes is there to
protect the great bears of the skies.
Aries
a noble creature pure of heart
and brave beyond all measure –
this magnificent golden ram
spirited away two innocent babes
and saved them from persecution
at the hands of their own father.
enduring treacherous climes
and avoiding hostile nations,
this dauntless trio braved on.
even when tragedy fell and
claimed the precious little girl,
the ram continued on to save the boy.
rushing courageously across
harsh, alien landscapes,
this valiant beast
took the terrified prince to
a friendly country –
a place where he’d always be safe.
as an offering of loyalty,
the young man sacrificed
the regal animal and
gifted the pelt to the king –
a token of peace to ensure
a long life with these strangers.
coveted by all,
only one was foolish enough
to steal the golden fleece –
an evil tyrant who
desired the power and wealth
associated with the hide.
rescued by a heroic band of men,
the fleece was restored to its rightful owner.
and the ram – the magnificent, selfless beast –
finally was rewarded by
being placed among the stars as
a symbol of unending courage.
and brave beyond all measure –
this magnificent golden ram
spirited away two innocent babes
and saved them from persecution
at the hands of their own father.
enduring treacherous climes
and avoiding hostile nations,
this dauntless trio braved on.
even when tragedy fell and
claimed the precious little girl,
the ram continued on to save the boy.
rushing courageously across
harsh, alien landscapes,
this valiant beast
took the terrified prince to
a friendly country –
a place where he’d always be safe.
as an offering of loyalty,
the young man sacrificed
the regal animal and
gifted the pelt to the king –
a token of peace to ensure
a long life with these strangers.
coveted by all,
only one was foolish enough
to steal the golden fleece –
an evil tyrant who
desired the power and wealth
associated with the hide.
rescued by a heroic band of men,
the fleece was restored to its rightful owner.
and the ram – the magnificent, selfless beast –
finally was rewarded by
being placed among the stars as
a symbol of unending courage.
Aquarius
ganymede –
handsome son of
a noble king and
humblest of herdsmen.
ganymede –
spotted from high
and amorously coveted by
the king of the gods.
ganymede –
spirited away from
the bosom of kith and kin
by an ethereal, regal bird.
ganymede –
resident of Olympus and
beloved by all he served as
cupbearer of the gods.
ganymede –
immortalized in heaven
upon his demise as a symbol of
the olympians’ undying love for this lad.
handsome son of
a noble king and
humblest of herdsmen.
ganymede –
spotted from high
and amorously coveted by
the king of the gods.
ganymede –
spirited away from
the bosom of kith and kin
by an ethereal, regal bird.
ganymede –
resident of Olympus and
beloved by all he served as
cupbearer of the gods.
ganymede –
immortalized in heaven
upon his demise as a symbol of
the olympians’ undying love for this lad.
Andromeda
daughter of a courageous king
and a beautiful yet boastful queen,
she nervously awaits –
a beautiful virgin sacrifice.
chained to an ancient, weathered cliff,
she fearfully trembles –
vulnerable and terrified –
fated to quench a sea creature’s desires.
spied from the clouds
by a heroic young warrior,
she is rescued from the
hungry, looming jaws of the beast,
and it is slain by
our young hero,
never to terrify an innocent
ever again.
upon the day of her wedding
as she is prepared to make her vow,
her family recants on
a solemn promise,
thus dooming themselves to
a never-ending hell of
silent, unmoving seclusion
imprisoned in stony bedrock.
happily wed for the remainder of
their short, mortal lives,
the couple is now immortalized
in the twinkling of
night’s wondrous vista –
the maiden’s hands outstretched and chained
to remind foolish others of
the gods’ terrible wrath.
and a beautiful yet boastful queen,
she nervously awaits –
a beautiful virgin sacrifice.
chained to an ancient, weathered cliff,
she fearfully trembles –
vulnerable and terrified –
fated to quench a sea creature’s desires.
spied from the clouds
by a heroic young warrior,
she is rescued from the
hungry, looming jaws of the beast,
and it is slain by
our young hero,
never to terrify an innocent
ever again.
upon the day of her wedding
as she is prepared to make her vow,
her family recants on
a solemn promise,
thus dooming themselves to
a never-ending hell of
silent, unmoving seclusion
imprisoned in stony bedrock.
happily wed for the remainder of
their short, mortal lives,
the couple is now immortalized
in the twinkling of
night’s wondrous vista –
the maiden’s hands outstretched and chained
to remind foolish others of
the gods’ terrible wrath.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Wagadu (based upon the West African Dausi tales)
a rich city lost to man –
not once but four times over –
this ancient land held promises of
riches of gold and clover.
the vanity of a foolish king
and that of his eldest son
caused the city to disappear –
this was punishment number one.
after returning again to
dazzle man’s bewildered eyes,
the city was the lost again
to greed and selfish lies.
the final time fair wagadu
was lost to us forever,
the purity of man’s love for woman
and dissention proved none too clever.
so today we weep for our loss,
our hearts growing cold.
man’s ignorant scheming dreams
have destroyed the city raining gold.
not once but four times over –
this ancient land held promises of
riches of gold and clover.
the vanity of a foolish king
and that of his eldest son
caused the city to disappear –
this was punishment number one.
after returning again to
dazzle man’s bewildered eyes,
the city was the lost again
to greed and selfish lies.
the final time fair wagadu
was lost to us forever,
the purity of man’s love for woman
and dissention proved none too clever.
so today we weep for our loss,
our hearts growing cold.
man’s ignorant scheming dreams
have destroyed the city raining gold.
Physician of Myddfai (based upon a Celtic myth)
a humble man who lived with peace in his heart,
rhiwallon helped all the people he could.
he gave to other shelter and food;
he shared with them advice and fire wood.
in appreciation of gracious ways,
the lady of the lake wished to bestow a gift.
she gave to him herbs, healing recipes, and
skills that could give the blackest soul a lift.
down through the years’ with time’s great passage,
rhiwallon helped thousands of unfortunate ones.
and when came his time to depart to the otherworld,
his healing gift did he pass to his sons.
rhiwallon helped all the people he could.
he gave to other shelter and food;
he shared with them advice and fire wood.
in appreciation of gracious ways,
the lady of the lake wished to bestow a gift.
she gave to him herbs, healing recipes, and
skills that could give the blackest soul a lift.
down through the years’ with time’s great passage,
rhiwallon helped thousands of unfortunate ones.
and when came his time to depart to the otherworld,
his healing gift did he pass to his sons.
Norweigan Sun & Moon Myth
day and night, night and day –
it hasn’t always been this way.
night, the giant, was dark and lusty.
her hair bestarred, her complexion dusky.
when night met the giant dawn,
they quickly married and had a son.
like his father, he was fair and gay,
so they named this child day.
to divide the time into dark and light,
the gods employed day and his mother, night.
on glorious steeds with jewel-like eyes,
the duo race across the skies.
to wash the world and make everything new,
every night night’s horse produces the dew.
to guide the horses through this astral world,
are moon and sun, a boy and a girl.
it hasn’t always been this way.
night, the giant, was dark and lusty.
her hair bestarred, her complexion dusky.
when night met the giant dawn,
they quickly married and had a son.
like his father, he was fair and gay,
so they named this child day.
to divide the time into dark and light,
the gods employed day and his mother, night.
on glorious steeds with jewel-like eyes,
the duo race across the skies.
to wash the world and make everything new,
every night night’s horse produces the dew.
to guide the horses through this astral world,
are moon and sun, a boy and a girl.
Mongol Sun Myth
the sky was bright and
no clouds did appear
for the seven suns
never let them come near.
in need of respite
for this dry, hot land,
we turned to Erhi Meregen –
the absolute best bowman.
he shot down the first six,
took them out one by one –
then he eagerly took aim at number 7
to see that his task was done.
he aimed and vowed and
pulled back the string,
but the arrow was impeded
by the strangest thing.
at the exact moment
his arrow was to take flight,
a swallow flew by and
gave Erhi a fright.
now strayed from its course,
that seventh arrow did fail.
instead of the sun,
it shot the swallow’s tail.
angered, enraged, and
ready to go,
he vowed to hunt it
and left to find poor swallow.
but the swallow ws clever
and hid from him, of course.
in anger, Erhi reacted and
chopped off the front legs of his horse.
the crippled horse lay down,
and there he sat
until nature took pity and
made it a kangaroo rat.
and erhi, still outraged,
did forget his pledge not.
he cut off his thumbs, hid in a hole,
and became the marmot.
and to this day,
he never forgets what he’s done.
he comes out in morning and night,
still dreaming of shooting the sun.
no clouds did appear
for the seven suns
never let them come near.
in need of respite
for this dry, hot land,
we turned to Erhi Meregen –
the absolute best bowman.
he shot down the first six,
took them out one by one –
then he eagerly took aim at number 7
to see that his task was done.
he aimed and vowed and
pulled back the string,
but the arrow was impeded
by the strangest thing.
at the exact moment
his arrow was to take flight,
a swallow flew by and
gave Erhi a fright.
now strayed from its course,
that seventh arrow did fail.
instead of the sun,
it shot the swallow’s tail.
angered, enraged, and
ready to go,
he vowed to hunt it
and left to find poor swallow.
but the swallow ws clever
and hid from him, of course.
in anger, Erhi reacted and
chopped off the front legs of his horse.
the crippled horse lay down,
and there he sat
until nature took pity and
made it a kangaroo rat.
and erhi, still outraged,
did forget his pledge not.
he cut off his thumbs, hid in a hole,
and became the marmot.
and to this day,
he never forgets what he’s done.
he comes out in morning and night,
still dreaming of shooting the sun.
Iyadola (based upon a West African myth)
once inside the father sky
and wrenched to the harsh ground,
she sits and drowns in loneliness.
desperate for companions,
she convinced her husband
they should make some children.
while fashioning their tiny bodies
from the rich clay of the congo,
she felt as if her soul was healing.
unable to cook the clay properly,
her children ranged in colours from
lily white to the blackest onyx.
sneaking into the forest one night,
after father sky had fallen asleep,
she breathed life into her beloved.
as the children laughed, played, and grew,
our dear earth mother felt whole
and never was lonely again.
and wrenched to the harsh ground,
she sits and drowns in loneliness.
desperate for companions,
she convinced her husband
they should make some children.
while fashioning their tiny bodies
from the rich clay of the congo,
she felt as if her soul was healing.
unable to cook the clay properly,
her children ranged in colours from
lily white to the blackest onyx.
sneaking into the forest one night,
after father sky had fallen asleep,
she breathed life into her beloved.
as the children laughed, played, and grew,
our dear earth mother felt whole
and never was lonely again.
Creation of the World (based upon Nordic myth)
the mighty gods –
fearsome brothers three –
were at fierce odds
with a giant quite frosty.
they declared a war
and did successfully kill
that might creature of lore
and melded his body to their will.
massive volumes of blood did pour
to form the rivers, lakes, and sea.
dragged out of his awesome door,
the giant’s body was gruesome to see.
pushing and pulling the now cold skin,
molding it like modeling clay,
the brothers pulled and pushed it in
to form lands, hills, and dry bay.
hacked from his mighty bones –
surely a task of which to brag –
their axes and swords made harmonious tones
as they formed many a mountain crag.
from the chips of bones, teeth, and toes,
they formed rocks and pebbles for the sea.
from the hair which on his head rose
the brothers fashioned a tree.
now that their foe was dead,
the brothers, never questioning why,
took the giant’s skull from his head
and used it to dome earth and form a sky.
to hold their dome
in its heavenly rest,
they positioned four gnomes
to hold it up – north, south, east and west.
to light the dark
and to cool off a friend,
they fashioned stars from a spark
and made a giant provide wind.
though there were no moon
or bright warm sun,
the brothers did not fret or swoon
for their jobs had just begun.
and what of these gods –
these brothers three?
they rest in vahalla, looking for odds.
they are odin, vili, and ve.
fearsome brothers three –
were at fierce odds
with a giant quite frosty.
they declared a war
and did successfully kill
that might creature of lore
and melded his body to their will.
massive volumes of blood did pour
to form the rivers, lakes, and sea.
dragged out of his awesome door,
the giant’s body was gruesome to see.
pushing and pulling the now cold skin,
molding it like modeling clay,
the brothers pulled and pushed it in
to form lands, hills, and dry bay.
hacked from his mighty bones –
surely a task of which to brag –
their axes and swords made harmonious tones
as they formed many a mountain crag.
from the chips of bones, teeth, and toes,
they formed rocks and pebbles for the sea.
from the hair which on his head rose
the brothers fashioned a tree.
now that their foe was dead,
the brothers, never questioning why,
took the giant’s skull from his head
and used it to dome earth and form a sky.
to hold their dome
in its heavenly rest,
they positioned four gnomes
to hold it up – north, south, east and west.
to light the dark
and to cool off a friend,
they fashioned stars from a spark
and made a giant provide wind.
though there were no moon
or bright warm sun,
the brothers did not fret or swoon
for their jobs had just begun.
and what of these gods –
these brothers three?
they rest in vahalla, looking for odds.
they are odin, vili, and ve.
Creation Myth (based upon the Nordic myth)
the gods had made
a perfect earth
yet still and not
given mankind birth.
while walking along
on the warm sea seand,
odin saw two logs
and dreamt up an idea for man.
into an ancient elm
odin did breathe life.
it twisted and spilt,
revealing a wife.
and into an ash
from a primeval land,
he breathed life again and
created a husband.
his brothers then
knew what to do.
they fashioned gifts
for the bewildered two.
gently draping
clothes on the pair,
the gods watched
as began a new era.
a perfect earth
yet still and not
given mankind birth.
while walking along
on the warm sea seand,
odin saw two logs
and dreamt up an idea for man.
into an ancient elm
odin did breathe life.
it twisted and spilt,
revealing a wife.
and into an ash
from a primeval land,
he breathed life again and
created a husband.
his brothers then
knew what to do.
they fashioned gifts
for the bewildered two.
gently draping
clothes on the pair,
the gods watched
as began a new era.
A Brothers' Quarrel (based upon a West African Fon myth)
two mighty brothers, both awesome gods,
had a disagreement leaving them at odds.
one left the sky on a beautiful starry night
as both continued thinking he was right.
the departed brother knew many a wondrous thing,
and earthly people made him their king.
the brother in the sky, still feeling great pain,
decided a lesson would be taught and withheld the rain.
three years of drought passed with no end in sight,
leaving the good king in a perilous plight.
on wings of might, he sent an urgent plea,
and finally he and his brother did agree.
since that day, the enmity came to an end
and the brothers now call each other “friend”.
had a disagreement leaving them at odds.
one left the sky on a beautiful starry night
as both continued thinking he was right.
the departed brother knew many a wondrous thing,
and earthly people made him their king.
the brother in the sky, still feeling great pain,
decided a lesson would be taught and withheld the rain.
three years of drought passed with no end in sight,
leaving the good king in a perilous plight.
on wings of might, he sent an urgent plea,
and finally he and his brother did agree.
since that day, the enmity came to an end
and the brothers now call each other “friend”.
Birth of a People (based upon a West African myth)
a proud, ancient race
defeated in violent war
forced to send forth gifts.
seven virgins left
across the desert’s hot sands
to meet their husbands.
tricked by a jinni
into camping for the night,
they slept like small babes.
visited at night
by a powerful magic,
the maids did dream strange.
at lush oasis,
they lounged, relaxed, and lingered
pregnant with male babes.
as the seven boys
grew into seven brave men,
they fought and flourished.
and forth from these men
sprang clans of nomadic ones
known as tuareg.
defeated in violent war
forced to send forth gifts.
seven virgins left
across the desert’s hot sands
to meet their husbands.
tricked by a jinni
into camping for the night,
they slept like small babes.
visited at night
by a powerful magic,
the maids did dream strange.
at lush oasis,
they lounged, relaxed, and lingered
pregnant with male babes.
as the seven boys
grew into seven brave men,
they fought and flourished.
and forth from these men
sprang clans of nomadic ones
known as tuareg.
Amateras (based upon a Japanese myth)
the greatest of goddesses of man,
she shined her light over all the land.
honest, playful, and terribly good,
she always tried to do the best she could.
then one day her brother, just for spite,
hurled a horse hide into her temple with might.
the hide – it did hit and kill
one of the maidens serving amateras’s will.
in grief at her brother’s prank she did bark,
and hid in a cave, making it dark.
to once again see her shining self,
the other gods planned to help.
they threw a party and just when
amateras came out, her light shone again.
and cast from the sky was her sibling
to ensure no repeats of this distressing thing.
she shined her light over all the land.
honest, playful, and terribly good,
she always tried to do the best she could.
then one day her brother, just for spite,
hurled a horse hide into her temple with might.
the hide – it did hit and kill
one of the maidens serving amateras’s will.
in grief at her brother’s prank she did bark,
and hid in a cave, making it dark.
to once again see her shining self,
the other gods planned to help.
they threw a party and just when
amateras came out, her light shone again.
and cast from the sky was her sibling
to ensure no repeats of this distressing thing.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A World Within Our Own
whatever you called it--
hyper-sensitivity,
hyper-reality,
or even a bad drug flashback--
it had finally gotten to him.
smoke-like wisps
emanating from someone's head,
lightning-like streaks
radiating from a moving hand--
it was all a bit too much.
he shook his head slowly
as he stood in silent appreciation
of a tear sliding down the face of a crying child--
a tear drop that more resembled
a gorgeous, liquid pearl than a tear.
hyper-sensitivity,
hyper-reality,
or even a bad drug flashback--
it had finally gotten to him.
smoke-like wisps
emanating from someone's head,
lightning-like streaks
radiating from a moving hand--
it was all a bit too much.
he shook his head slowly
as he stood in silent appreciation
of a tear sliding down the face of a crying child--
a tear drop that more resembled
a gorgeous, liquid pearl than a tear.
Perception
creeping through somber woods
along the river at dusk,
i tried to swallow my fears.
within the close confines of rotted stumps
and drooping canopy of dying pine,
she often found me increasing
the energy of my grip –
grasping the frail skin of her hand or
holding her shirt sleeve –
lest something should appear,
appetite ready to devour me.
wild beasts peered from underneath
the carpet of molding pine needles,
wide bright eyes following my movement.
ears seemed to twitch with each misstep
as if hearing and identifying my fear.
legs fluttered and wiggled,
ready to jump out at me without
even a moment to scream.
“easy, child,” she smiled and said.
“those images aren’t real.
it’s just in your imagination.”
she toted me towards the beasts,
my hand now clutching hers
to hold on for dear life.
then i saw them – as if for the first time.
old logs and stumps had imposed
upon the confines of my fertile mind,
taking the shape of beasts.
their bright eyes – simple knots,
washed white by many hard rains.
their ears – fallen leaves from the dogwood,
stuck to the logs with mildew and slime.
and those legs, those fearsome creepy legs –
broken limbs bent at odd angles to tease.
a nervous laugh escaped my lips,
and i smiled at her old wrinkled face,
ready to continue on our way.
along the river at dusk,
i tried to swallow my fears.
within the close confines of rotted stumps
and drooping canopy of dying pine,
she often found me increasing
the energy of my grip –
grasping the frail skin of her hand or
holding her shirt sleeve –
lest something should appear,
appetite ready to devour me.
wild beasts peered from underneath
the carpet of molding pine needles,
wide bright eyes following my movement.
ears seemed to twitch with each misstep
as if hearing and identifying my fear.
legs fluttered and wiggled,
ready to jump out at me without
even a moment to scream.
“easy, child,” she smiled and said.
“those images aren’t real.
it’s just in your imagination.”
she toted me towards the beasts,
my hand now clutching hers
to hold on for dear life.
then i saw them – as if for the first time.
old logs and stumps had imposed
upon the confines of my fertile mind,
taking the shape of beasts.
their bright eyes – simple knots,
washed white by many hard rains.
their ears – fallen leaves from the dogwood,
stuck to the logs with mildew and slime.
and those legs, those fearsome creepy legs –
broken limbs bent at odd angles to tease.
a nervous laugh escaped my lips,
and i smiled at her old wrinkled face,
ready to continue on our way.
Nightmare
awaken with a jolt as the world comes crashing down
i run from the comfort and safety of my sheltered soul
running fast… faster… faster yet…
running from the threat to my quiet complacency
the corner turns and i stop up short,
confronted face to face by my demons.
whirling, thrashing, fighting just to break free –
biting, scratching, hoping to find a soft spot –
praying, pleading, down on my knees
for the madness to fully retreat
wishing for a coherent thought that will
help me escape from this oddity.
a gentle shake, a soft caress, a feather of a whisper –
these seem out of place in this cruel house of horror;
i tremble, fearing the next touch to be pain.
yet, the next touch is soft, compassionate –
a voice pulling me from the depths –
out of the blinding nightmare that’s captured me.
i run from the comfort and safety of my sheltered soul
running fast… faster… faster yet…
running from the threat to my quiet complacency
the corner turns and i stop up short,
confronted face to face by my demons.
whirling, thrashing, fighting just to break free –
biting, scratching, hoping to find a soft spot –
praying, pleading, down on my knees
for the madness to fully retreat
wishing for a coherent thought that will
help me escape from this oddity.
a gentle shake, a soft caress, a feather of a whisper –
these seem out of place in this cruel house of horror;
i tremble, fearing the next touch to be pain.
yet, the next touch is soft, compassionate –
a voice pulling me from the depths –
out of the blinding nightmare that’s captured me.
The Monkey
a cold gust of wind rose,
blowing a long, low moan
through the old, rusty gutter.
he shivered and turned to go.
that’s when he saw it—
the large cartoon eyes;
the tarnished, broken symbols;
that toothy, maniacal grin.
that grin!
he had seen that grin,
once comforting and comical,
in his nightmares.
now, face to face with this childhood toy,
that grin was no longer welcoming.
it said, “Welcome home, Johnny.”
at the same time, that grin—
that innocent-looking grin—
had also said,
“prepare to die.”
blowing a long, low moan
through the old, rusty gutter.
he shivered and turned to go.
that’s when he saw it—
the large cartoon eyes;
the tarnished, broken symbols;
that toothy, maniacal grin.
that grin!
he had seen that grin,
once comforting and comical,
in his nightmares.
now, face to face with this childhood toy,
that grin was no longer welcoming.
it said, “Welcome home, Johnny.”
at the same time, that grin—
that innocent-looking grin—
had also said,
“prepare to die.”
A Momentary Peace
he walked--
walked for miles in
that devilish heat and humidity.
he walked until
his legs were nothing more than
rubber bands
and his heart raced as if
it would explode.
he relished these walks--
relished them mostly because
of the way his head would swim
and his ear would ring,
sometimes ringing so loudly
it drowned out the
agonizing,
tortuously slow
ticking of the
death watch.
walked for miles in
that devilish heat and humidity.
he walked until
his legs were nothing more than
rubber bands
and his heart raced as if
it would explode.
he relished these walks--
relished them mostly because
of the way his head would swim
and his ear would ring,
sometimes ringing so loudly
it drowned out the
agonizing,
tortuously slow
ticking of the
death watch.
Life and Death
the imposing site rose
out of the middle of nowhere.
it appeared to be a building,
a building made of dark,
sot coloured stone
and surrounded by a field of
bight red roses—
roses so bright and
alive they seemed almost
otherworldly.
she had entered the building,
not exactly sure where she was
or what she was doing there.
the cold stone seemed to breathe
and pulse as if it were alive.
she glanced about at the
strange beings walking around
as if this was any other ordinary day.
her body tingled and began
to shimmer with an unknown force.
she felt herself rising
as if her body had
dissolved to mist—
rising higher and higher.
she shuddered as on of the
odd passersby walked through her.
still, she rose,
floating higher until
she reached the roof
of this wondrous building.
the night was clear…
moonless…
gorgeous.
stars glittered across the
arc of the sky in an
extravagant, misty sprawl of light.
the warm wind was blowing,
blowing ferociously hard,
but she could not feel it.
gazing out at this
beautiful starscape,
she became aware of
the pinkening dawn sky.
time seemed to pass
faster at this level.
marveling in the coming day,
that was when she spied it.
the looming, inky death bag
hovering over the edge of the city.
out of the middle of nowhere.
it appeared to be a building,
a building made of dark,
sot coloured stone
and surrounded by a field of
bight red roses—
roses so bright and
alive they seemed almost
otherworldly.
she had entered the building,
not exactly sure where she was
or what she was doing there.
the cold stone seemed to breathe
and pulse as if it were alive.
she glanced about at the
strange beings walking around
as if this was any other ordinary day.
her body tingled and began
to shimmer with an unknown force.
she felt herself rising
as if her body had
dissolved to mist—
rising higher and higher.
she shuddered as on of the
odd passersby walked through her.
still, she rose,
floating higher until
she reached the roof
of this wondrous building.
the night was clear…
moonless…
gorgeous.
stars glittered across the
arc of the sky in an
extravagant, misty sprawl of light.
the warm wind was blowing,
blowing ferociously hard,
but she could not feel it.
gazing out at this
beautiful starscape,
she became aware of
the pinkening dawn sky.
time seemed to pass
faster at this level.
marveling in the coming day,
that was when she spied it.
the looming, inky death bag
hovering over the edge of the city.
Human Energy
human energy—
boundless. limitless.
to drain all the energy
in one person’s aura…
from the very depths of their soul…
would be like a child
trying to drain the pacific ocean
with a small, plastic bucket.
boundless. limitless.
to drain all the energy
in one person’s aura…
from the very depths of their soul…
would be like a child
trying to drain the pacific ocean
with a small, plastic bucket.
Horrid Visions
he slipped his hand
through the oil slick of an aura.
the jolt as he broke through
sent him into a total panic.
his normally electric blue aura
turned an angry mixture of
blood red and deathly black.
the look on his face was
one of terror and loathing.
he screamed and
pulled his hand back
as if burned by a
white-hot flame
and attempted to contemplate
the horrid images he had seen.
through the oil slick of an aura.
the jolt as he broke through
sent him into a total panic.
his normally electric blue aura
turned an angry mixture of
blood red and deathly black.
the look on his face was
one of terror and loathing.
he screamed and
pulled his hand back
as if burned by a
white-hot flame
and attempted to contemplate
the horrid images he had seen.
An Enveloping Death
it looked like bugs—
nightmarish, black, writhing bugs—
crawling out of her eyes, mouth, and nose.
but it wasn’t bugs at all—
it was a black, fog-like balloon
enveloping the small creature.
he peered out at the one responsible for
this horrid image,
a balding man wearing a dirty smock,
and swore to get even
as the balloon-like shadow
enveloped its prey.
nightmarish, black, writhing bugs—
crawling out of her eyes, mouth, and nose.
but it wasn’t bugs at all—
it was a black, fog-like balloon
enveloping the small creature.
he peered out at the one responsible for
this horrid image,
a balding man wearing a dirty smock,
and swore to get even
as the balloon-like shadow
enveloped its prey.
Degeneration
the glow of the light was there,
although dim and distant.
he slowly turned towards
the mirror to see the damage.
“losing cohesion,” he mumbled,
shrinking away from the sight that stared at him.
his skin was degenerating,
rotting at an excruciating pace.
his soft tissue was breaking down,
giving his face a droopy, puddled look.
his teeth seemed loose,
as if they could fall out at any moment.
and the sores—red patches
laced with dead, white skin.
the sores now covered
his face, neck, and arms.
it seemed as if he was de-evolving,
his skin falling off his bones.
although dim and distant.
he slowly turned towards
the mirror to see the damage.
“losing cohesion,” he mumbled,
shrinking away from the sight that stared at him.
his skin was degenerating,
rotting at an excruciating pace.
his soft tissue was breaking down,
giving his face a droopy, puddled look.
his teeth seemed loose,
as if they could fall out at any moment.
and the sores—red patches
laced with dead, white skin.
the sores now covered
his face, neck, and arms.
it seemed as if he was de-evolving,
his skin falling off his bones.
Carnival
dimly light and shrouded in shadows,
you could only see the outlines —
vague and blurred —
of the thrill rides.
but you could hear them —
the horrifying screams of
patrons who feared for their lives.
along the midway, carnies called out,
trying to get some sucker’s attention
to come play a game of chance
(“two games for a dollar,” they cried),
as a dilapidated old calliope
blared “the funeral march” for all to hear.
with false smiles plastered on
their grotesque lips and terror
shining in their small, misshapen eyes,
the denizens of freak alley
could do nothing but
stare out at you in pity.
and those souls —
those poor souls lost in the house of mirrors —
were gone…
lost for all of eternity
at this monstrosity,
this carnival of lost souls.
you could only see the outlines —
vague and blurred —
of the thrill rides.
but you could hear them —
the horrifying screams of
patrons who feared for their lives.
along the midway, carnies called out,
trying to get some sucker’s attention
to come play a game of chance
(“two games for a dollar,” they cried),
as a dilapidated old calliope
blared “the funeral march” for all to hear.
with false smiles plastered on
their grotesque lips and terror
shining in their small, misshapen eyes,
the denizens of freak alley
could do nothing but
stare out at you in pity.
and those souls —
those poor souls lost in the house of mirrors —
were gone…
lost for all of eternity
at this monstrosity,
this carnival of lost souls.
Buried Alive
tracks?
whose tracks?
there was the deep impression
of a very large shoe in the
pile of dirt closest to the hole.
not only was there some
footprints
but also a circular dimple
almost the size of a
dinner plate.
and grooves!
grooves shaped exactly
like fingernail claw marks,
inside the walls and
immediately around the grave site.
the roots in the hole were torn…
twisted…
frayed…
as if someone had dug
himself out of his grave.
whose tracks?
there was the deep impression
of a very large shoe in the
pile of dirt closest to the hole.
not only was there some
footprints
but also a circular dimple
almost the size of a
dinner plate.
and grooves!
grooves shaped exactly
like fingernail claw marks,
inside the walls and
immediately around the grave site.
the roots in the hole were torn…
twisted…
frayed…
as if someone had dug
himself out of his grave.
Back Where You Belong
the squalling of birds
drowned out all other noise.
the ground was black
for miles…
covered with the live bodies
of thousands of sparrows.
psychopomps—
that’s what his professor
had called them—
harbingers of the dead.
the wind start to moan,
and those sparrows—
all 79,505 of them—
took to the air at once,
the beating of their wings
a steady drone and
the outlines of their bodies
darkening the sky,
blocking the noon sun,
turning day to night.
they crashed through the
east wall of the house,
flying straight for the
husk of the man,
lying on the floor.
they picked up the body,
still alive and now screaming,
by the loose puddles of
skin hanging from his limbs and
carried him back to hell.
drowned out all other noise.
the ground was black
for miles…
covered with the live bodies
of thousands of sparrows.
psychopomps—
that’s what his professor
had called them—
harbingers of the dead.
the wind start to moan,
and those sparrows—
all 79,505 of them—
took to the air at once,
the beating of their wings
a steady drone and
the outlines of their bodies
darkening the sky,
blocking the noon sun,
turning day to night.
they crashed through the
east wall of the house,
flying straight for the
husk of the man,
lying on the floor.
they picked up the body,
still alive and now screaming,
by the loose puddles of
skin hanging from his limbs and
carried him back to hell.
Chemical Party
chemical party – reeks of stale smoke and
cheap booze mixed with musty sex
trails of ruby red and diamond white
race past, floating on the air
fireworks flash and bang –
behind closed eyes they do not go away
pulse pounds, heart beats –
your hell and your dream
night is your companion – a goddess on her knees
maybe, an angel underneath
slips inside to violate, desecrate –
she comes and goes like no one can
be her angel now – be her all
take her anyway you can
sexy machine – jingaling from here to the ceiling
inside, reeling, so fresh and clean
leather and lace smiles in her special way-
playing games is part of human nature
sooner or later it comes down to fate –
struck by lightning, who here would feel it?
a stolen kiss – minty fresh dip breath –
colors of a cowboy’s cliché
you broke apart your insides –
lost in the walls of another world
chemical party – deep within the night
are we havin’ fun yet?
pour yourself into a cab because
the world shines for you today.
cheap booze mixed with musty sex
trails of ruby red and diamond white
race past, floating on the air
fireworks flash and bang –
behind closed eyes they do not go away
pulse pounds, heart beats –
your hell and your dream
night is your companion – a goddess on her knees
maybe, an angel underneath
slips inside to violate, desecrate –
she comes and goes like no one can
be her angel now – be her all
take her anyway you can
sexy machine – jingaling from here to the ceiling
inside, reeling, so fresh and clean
leather and lace smiles in her special way-
playing games is part of human nature
sooner or later it comes down to fate –
struck by lightning, who here would feel it?
a stolen kiss – minty fresh dip breath –
colors of a cowboy’s cliché
you broke apart your insides –
lost in the walls of another world
chemical party – deep within the night
are we havin’ fun yet?
pour yourself into a cab because
the world shines for you today.
Why?
why?
why can’t you see
what you’re doing to me?
why do you keep
my heart on a chain?
why do you pull me to you
just as I set myself free?
why can’t you see
what you’re doing to me?
why?
why can’t you see
what you’re doing to me?
why do you keep
my heart on a chain?
why do you pull me to you
just as I set myself free?
why can’t you see
what you’re doing to me?
why?
Where Did You Come From?
where did you come from?
you weren’t here just a moment ago –
oh, i know we’ve passed this way
a time or two or three…
we’ve even said hello and
maybe even talked for a while…
but where did you come from?
a moment ago, this room was
dark, cold, and lonely…
i was feeling at my worst…
my head hung low with despair;
the night was closing in around me,
tightening its grasp on my throat
like a strangle meant for death.
so, i ask again, just where did you come from?
one moment, i’m on the verge of tears…
then you showed up in my life…
nothing special, just popped by for a chat –
but then, when did we stop by just
for a little chat in all the years
that have gone by?
where did you come from?
you blew into my life like a
the blast from a force-5 tornado –
ripping apart my senses and
shattering my sensibilities…
keeping me so totally enthralled
and returning to this space night after night.
so, i ask, where did you come from?
a moment ago, there was nothing but
the cool, quiet dark, and my despair…
and now, there is a feeling of peace,
warmth… and… something else –
something else left unnamed…
so where did you come from?
and how did i get so lucky?
you weren’t here just a moment ago –
oh, i know we’ve passed this way
a time or two or three…
we’ve even said hello and
maybe even talked for a while…
but where did you come from?
a moment ago, this room was
dark, cold, and lonely…
i was feeling at my worst…
my head hung low with despair;
the night was closing in around me,
tightening its grasp on my throat
like a strangle meant for death.
so, i ask again, just where did you come from?
one moment, i’m on the verge of tears…
then you showed up in my life…
nothing special, just popped by for a chat –
but then, when did we stop by just
for a little chat in all the years
that have gone by?
where did you come from?
you blew into my life like a
the blast from a force-5 tornado –
ripping apart my senses and
shattering my sensibilities…
keeping me so totally enthralled
and returning to this space night after night.
so, i ask, where did you come from?
a moment ago, there was nothing but
the cool, quiet dark, and my despair…
and now, there is a feeling of peace,
warmth… and… something else –
something else left unnamed…
so where did you come from?
and how did i get so lucky?
What Might Have Been...
i turned around,
and there you were.
it was as if time had stood still.
your eyes were still sparkling like
the diamonds i had remembered,
and your laughter was still as beautiful
as the loveliest italian aria.
you touched my hand,
so lightly most wouldn’t notice,
and i shivered—
still as attracted to you now.
then i noticed the ring—
your wedding ring—
shining on your hand.
making my excuses,
i ran out of there
before you could see my tears…
but i couldn’t help but think of
what might have been.
and there you were.
it was as if time had stood still.
your eyes were still sparkling like
the diamonds i had remembered,
and your laughter was still as beautiful
as the loveliest italian aria.
you touched my hand,
so lightly most wouldn’t notice,
and i shivered—
still as attracted to you now.
then i noticed the ring—
your wedding ring—
shining on your hand.
making my excuses,
i ran out of there
before you could see my tears…
but i couldn’t help but think of
what might have been.
Watching
and here i sit, staring at you, though you don’t know it’s me…
biding my time til i can find the words to let you know –
let you know just how much you mean to me…
here i sit, watching you – from afar … never coming near…
holding in the flood that threatens to well up over the dam –
the flood in which my soul resides…
and yet i sit, watching you and feeling as if you’re watching me –
but how can that possibly be?
i've never told you that it’s me.
biding my time til i can find the words to let you know –
let you know just how much you mean to me…
here i sit, watching you – from afar … never coming near…
holding in the flood that threatens to well up over the dam –
the flood in which my soul resides…
and yet i sit, watching you and feeling as if you’re watching me –
but how can that possibly be?
i've never told you that it’s me.
Untitled Musing
life races on, hurriedly pushing us forward –
towards who only knows what?
racing, never slowing, until the end of days –
until we meet our final destiny.
dreams of that life to come sustain us…
keep us afloat when the misery and miasma
of that which is the rat race
would threaten to drown us in its gloom.
who of us can say we’ve lived?
which of us can throw that first stone,
surrounded by walls of a glass house,
pointing an accusatory finger?
towards who only knows what?
racing, never slowing, until the end of days –
until we meet our final destiny.
dreams of that life to come sustain us…
keep us afloat when the misery and miasma
of that which is the rat race
would threaten to drown us in its gloom.
who of us can say we’ve lived?
which of us can throw that first stone,
surrounded by walls of a glass house,
pointing an accusatory finger?
Untitled Emotional Musing
looking around, a comfortable feeling settles –
the old faces and names swirl in and out of the fog
like beacons on an endless midnight ocean
that somehow managed to burn.
dancing in and out of my life, always there
just beyond my reach – just out of my sight…
a kindred spirit feeling lost and alone
not knowing which turn to take.
crossing the years and the tears,
we wound up in this space and time –
neither of us quite knowing what
our next move should be.
so, look deeply into in my eyes -
let’s get lost tonight in each other and
share those whispered secrets
we know so well one more time.
we’ve started a story whose end must not wait –
the curtains still dance with the wind and the sky
as music softens until it was only an underscoring
of the movements between our two hearts
your voice - silken threads softly whispered
in the small hours of the night into
a waiting ear and an ever trembling heart –
spending one more night alone.
alone?
how can that be when you were just here –
your fingertips just caressing my face as
your words play my heart like an aria.
so please tell me - when will our eyes meet?
when can finally i touch you?
when will this strong yearning end?
everything inside of me is wanting you and needing you
the old faces and names swirl in and out of the fog
like beacons on an endless midnight ocean
that somehow managed to burn.
dancing in and out of my life, always there
just beyond my reach – just out of my sight…
a kindred spirit feeling lost and alone
not knowing which turn to take.
crossing the years and the tears,
we wound up in this space and time –
neither of us quite knowing what
our next move should be.
so, look deeply into in my eyes -
let’s get lost tonight in each other and
share those whispered secrets
we know so well one more time.
we’ve started a story whose end must not wait –
the curtains still dance with the wind and the sky
as music softens until it was only an underscoring
of the movements between our two hearts
your voice - silken threads softly whispered
in the small hours of the night into
a waiting ear and an ever trembling heart –
spending one more night alone.
alone?
how can that be when you were just here –
your fingertips just caressing my face as
your words play my heart like an aria.
so please tell me - when will our eyes meet?
when can finally i touch you?
when will this strong yearning end?
everything inside of me is wanting you and needing you
Turning to You
in the quiet of the evenin’,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i swore they wouldn’t this time – not after the last.
if i could just find way to still these emotions,
i know i could last until dawn …
in the deep, dark quiet of midnight,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i see your smile and the warmth in your eyes,
floating through the pages of my mind,
and my resolve is slipping away…
in the quiet of dawn’s coming,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
your voice slips down my spine like a warm current,
and i smile at just the thought of your name…
what am i going do…
in the quiet of morning’s light,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
hurt so bad before that i had closed completely down,
but you found a way in … into my mind, my heart, my soul…
when i swore i wouldn’t let you…
in the quiet of the afternoon,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i can no longer deny the way you have touched my life
and how i yearn to touch yours… touch yours in a way
i never wanted to touch another before…
in the quiet of the evenin’,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i finally admit it – you’ve got me, whatever may come…
my soul is free to soar again above the highest heights,
and it’s all because of you that my heart has taken wings…
yes, when all is said and done,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i swore they wouldn’t this time – not after the last.
if i could just find way to still these emotions,
i know i could last until dawn …
in the deep, dark quiet of midnight,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i see your smile and the warmth in your eyes,
floating through the pages of my mind,
and my resolve is slipping away…
in the quiet of dawn’s coming,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
your voice slips down my spine like a warm current,
and i smile at just the thought of your name…
what am i going do…
in the quiet of morning’s light,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
hurt so bad before that i had closed completely down,
but you found a way in … into my mind, my heart, my soul…
when i swore i wouldn’t let you…
in the quiet of the afternoon,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i can no longer deny the way you have touched my life
and how i yearn to touch yours… touch yours in a way
i never wanted to touch another before…
in the quiet of the evenin’,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
i finally admit it – you’ve got me, whatever may come…
my soul is free to soar again above the highest heights,
and it’s all because of you that my heart has taken wings…
yes, when all is said and done,
i find my thoughts turning to you…
There You Are
the nights are long, dark and bleak –
loneliness threatening to swallow me,
drowning me in sorrows.
but there you are.
surrounded in shades of blue and
cloaked in the hollow sound of
my own voice.
but there you are.
all at once feeling alone in the mire
yet not as alone as I thought –
a like mind sharing the darkness.
and there you are.
thoughts of soft spring nights,
gently lulled by the creaking of
an old porch swing.
and there you are.
arms stretched out towards you,
yet never quite reaching
across time and distance.
but there you are.
voices travel the phone lines,
enclosing a heart with warmth
while emphasizing the loneliness.
and there you are.
through time, space, and distance –
keeping company through the
wee hours of dawn.
there you are.
loneliness threatening to swallow me,
drowning me in sorrows.
but there you are.
surrounded in shades of blue and
cloaked in the hollow sound of
my own voice.
but there you are.
all at once feeling alone in the mire
yet not as alone as I thought –
a like mind sharing the darkness.
and there you are.
thoughts of soft spring nights,
gently lulled by the creaking of
an old porch swing.
and there you are.
arms stretched out towards you,
yet never quite reaching
across time and distance.
but there you are.
voices travel the phone lines,
enclosing a heart with warmth
while emphasizing the loneliness.
and there you are.
through time, space, and distance –
keeping company through the
wee hours of dawn.
there you are.
Symphony for the Senses
earth, wind, rain, passion –
the scent awakens the senses
and inflames the blood
feather soft, just ever so light –
the touch reaches deep into
a guarded soul
reflections, star light, falling leaves –
the sights assault the mind and
free your inner passions
damp chill, fresh grass, dew –
the taste tickles as it touches
the very tip of your tongue
crackling, whistling, chirping –
the sounds play a mystical symphony
just for two
walking along the path towards
home, hand and hand,
feeling content and safe
the scent awakens the senses
and inflames the blood
feather soft, just ever so light –
the touch reaches deep into
a guarded soul
reflections, star light, falling leaves –
the sights assault the mind and
free your inner passions
damp chill, fresh grass, dew –
the taste tickles as it touches
the very tip of your tongue
crackling, whistling, chirping –
the sounds play a mystical symphony
just for two
walking along the path towards
home, hand and hand,
feeling content and safe
Surprise
the look on her face said it all.
her eyes were wide—
her mouth agape.
she could feel her heart
pounding in her chest.
the blood rushed from her head,
leaving her dizzy and giddy.
she sat back hard,
not feeling anything but
the numbing of shock that
stems from such a great
surprise.
her eyes were wide—
her mouth agape.
she could feel her heart
pounding in her chest.
the blood rushed from her head,
leaving her dizzy and giddy.
she sat back hard,
not feeling anything but
the numbing of shock that
stems from such a great
surprise.
Sunset, Sunrise
the sun sets on two lonely souls
feeling the tortured pain of a
past gone wrong.
as the fiery flames of day
extinguish into the darkness of night,
they weep, mourning love lost.
the sun rises on two people,
filled with renewed hope.
their souls join, bringing peace to the
chaotic pain of the past.
as the moon's silvery rays give way
to the sun's fiery flames,
they smile, dreaming of a future together.
feeling the tortured pain of a
past gone wrong.
as the fiery flames of day
extinguish into the darkness of night,
they weep, mourning love lost.
the sun rises on two people,
filled with renewed hope.
their souls join, bringing peace to the
chaotic pain of the past.
as the moon's silvery rays give way
to the sun's fiery flames,
they smile, dreaming of a future together.
Sunset, Sunrise
the sun sets on two lonely souls
feeling the tortured pain of a
past gone wrong.
as the fiery flames of day
extinguish into the darkness of night,
they weep, mourning love lost.
the sun rises on two people,
filled with renewed hope.
their souls join, bringing peace to the
chaotic pain of the past.
as the moon's silvery rays give way
to the sun's fiery flames,
they smile, dreaming of a future together.
feeling the tortured pain of a
past gone wrong.
as the fiery flames of day
extinguish into the darkness of night,
they weep, mourning love lost.
the sun rises on two people,
filled with renewed hope.
their souls join, bringing peace to the
chaotic pain of the past.
as the moon's silvery rays give way
to the sun's fiery flames,
they smile, dreaming of a future together.
Staring at the Clock
staring at the clock,
hearing each little tic
resound inside my head.
sitting here, waiting
wondering where you might be
tonight.
wondering what you’re doing –
what you’re thinking…
are you alone?
staring at the clock,
feeling myself slip
inexorably into desperation.
consoling myself with
a bottle of bacardi and
a pack of marlboros.
staring at the phone,
wishing for life,
willing it to ring.
staring at the clock
marking each minute
with a slash upon my arm.
wondering
waiting
wishing
wondering why you had to leave –
leave me here alone,
to worship your memory.
staring at the clock,
coming closer to oblivion
with each passing second.
hearing each little tic
resound inside my head.
sitting here, waiting
wondering where you might be
tonight.
wondering what you’re doing –
what you’re thinking…
are you alone?
staring at the clock,
feeling myself slip
inexorably into desperation.
consoling myself with
a bottle of bacardi and
a pack of marlboros.
staring at the phone,
wishing for life,
willing it to ring.
staring at the clock
marking each minute
with a slash upon my arm.
wondering
waiting
wishing
wondering why you had to leave –
leave me here alone,
to worship your memory.
staring at the clock,
coming closer to oblivion
with each passing second.
Soul-Wrenching Yearning
looking around, a comfortable feeling settles –
the old faces and names swirl in and out of the fog
like beacons on an endless midnight ocean
that somehow managed to burn.
dancing in and out of my life, always there
just beyond my reach – just out of my sight…
a kindred spirit feeling lost and alone
not knowing which turn to take.
crossing the years and the tears,
we wound up in this space and time –
neither of us quite knowing what
our next move should be.
so, look deeply into my eyes -
let’s get lost tonight in each other and
share those whispered secrets
we know so well one more time.
we’ve started a story whose end must not wait –
the curtains still dance with the wind and the sky
as music softens until it was only an underscoring
of the movements between our two hearts
your voice - silken threads softly whispered
in the small hours of the night into
a waiting ear and an ever trembling heart –
spending one more night alone.
alone?
how can that be when you were just here –
your fingertips just caressing my face as
your words play my heart like an aria.
so please tell me - when will our eyes meet?
when can finally i touch you?
when will this strong yearning end?
everything inside of me is wanting you and needing you
the old faces and names swirl in and out of the fog
like beacons on an endless midnight ocean
that somehow managed to burn.
dancing in and out of my life, always there
just beyond my reach – just out of my sight…
a kindred spirit feeling lost and alone
not knowing which turn to take.
crossing the years and the tears,
we wound up in this space and time –
neither of us quite knowing what
our next move should be.
so, look deeply into my eyes -
let’s get lost tonight in each other and
share those whispered secrets
we know so well one more time.
we’ve started a story whose end must not wait –
the curtains still dance with the wind and the sky
as music softens until it was only an underscoring
of the movements between our two hearts
your voice - silken threads softly whispered
in the small hours of the night into
a waiting ear and an ever trembling heart –
spending one more night alone.
alone?
how can that be when you were just here –
your fingertips just caressing my face as
your words play my heart like an aria.
so please tell me - when will our eyes meet?
when can finally i touch you?
when will this strong yearning end?
everything inside of me is wanting you and needing you
Reverence
a nocturnal visit -
within that small piece of the night,
they could both pretend...
they could ride the heart of a whirlwind,
secured in place with a rope
braided from the dreams of trees
the heart has its reasons -
reasons whereof reason knows nothing
she was drowning in their need
yet alone in a fragment...
a fragment of nothingness
beneath the mysterious black vault of velvet skies
perfection of dignity and virtue
lay in a corona of clouds
gathered about her head -
perfectly silhouetted against the moon,
her beauty lay in far more
than the outward description
the radiance of her smile
was as tangible as a soft breeze,
and it melted his cold heart
shadows swirling in crystal,
his voice trembled
like the dying aspen leaf
eyes flamed with hunger...
desire...
triumph...
as her hair tore free -
whipping about her face
like medusa's snakes
in moonlight, she was marble and shadow
and he knelt before her,
drowning himself
in a thick puddle of fog -
a lifetime since he'd laughed;
an eternity since he'd cried.
he whispered her name -
a voice so close to silence
one must strain to hear it -
and his eyes drank her down
like a bracing tot
of hot gin
the moment was sacrosanct,
and shadows caressed them reverently,
like sycophantic demons...
and a pure white light
spread like winter ice
over the darkness.
within that small piece of the night,
they could both pretend...
they could ride the heart of a whirlwind,
secured in place with a rope
braided from the dreams of trees
the heart has its reasons -
reasons whereof reason knows nothing
she was drowning in their need
yet alone in a fragment...
a fragment of nothingness
beneath the mysterious black vault of velvet skies
perfection of dignity and virtue
lay in a corona of clouds
gathered about her head -
perfectly silhouetted against the moon,
her beauty lay in far more
than the outward description
the radiance of her smile
was as tangible as a soft breeze,
and it melted his cold heart
shadows swirling in crystal,
his voice trembled
like the dying aspen leaf
eyes flamed with hunger...
desire...
triumph...
as her hair tore free -
whipping about her face
like medusa's snakes
in moonlight, she was marble and shadow
and he knelt before her,
drowning himself
in a thick puddle of fog -
a lifetime since he'd laughed;
an eternity since he'd cried.
he whispered her name -
a voice so close to silence
one must strain to hear it -
and his eyes drank her down
like a bracing tot
of hot gin
the moment was sacrosanct,
and shadows caressed them reverently,
like sycophantic demons...
and a pure white light
spread like winter ice
over the darkness.
Remember My Love
He looked in her eyes,
Finally seeing the light.
The warmth of her love
Had made everything all right.
He drew her close
For love’s first kiss
And whispered in her ear,
“Please remember this.
At the end of the day
When you’re feeling low,
Just remember this night
And our love will grow.
When you’re feeling defeated
Like no one’s cared for a while,
Just remember my love
To renew your smile.”
Finally seeing the light.
The warmth of her love
Had made everything all right.
He drew her close
For love’s first kiss
And whispered in her ear,
“Please remember this.
At the end of the day
When you’re feeling low,
Just remember this night
And our love will grow.
When you’re feeling defeated
Like no one’s cared for a while,
Just remember my love
To renew your smile.”
Realization
a vivid rainbow of understanding
suddenly lit in his consciousness.
in its glow, he saw something
immense…
something so large and wonderful
it seemed unquestionable…
preordained.
he turned to face her and
found her bathed in an
ethereal, pale yellow glow.
it transformed the once
plain and dowdy woman
into a creature of almost
unbearable beauty.
she is eos, goddess of the dawn,
he thought.
she is truly beautiful,
and i have fallen in love
with her in this very instant.
i’m so in love with her
it feels as if i’m drowning.
suddenly lit in his consciousness.
in its glow, he saw something
immense…
something so large and wonderful
it seemed unquestionable…
preordained.
he turned to face her and
found her bathed in an
ethereal, pale yellow glow.
it transformed the once
plain and dowdy woman
into a creature of almost
unbearable beauty.
she is eos, goddess of the dawn,
he thought.
she is truly beautiful,
and i have fallen in love
with her in this very instant.
i’m so in love with her
it feels as if i’m drowning.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Poised Upon The Precipice
you’ve stood here before –
poised upon the precipice,
ready to take the leap…
but why now?
what makes this different than
a million times before-
different man, different age
but you’re still the same you
you’ve stood before that door,
ready to knock –
ready to announce yourself
to him and his world
and yet, you hesitated –
held back the largest part of you,
afraid to share the fears,
the hopes, the dreams
held back the largest part
because you knew he’d
swallow you whole –
swallow your soul like so many before
so what makes you think
this man is any different
than the ones who’ve come before –
or may even come afterward?
so the defenses have fallen?
haven’t they come down before,
only to be bruised and abused,
and put back in iron?
so your soul is at peace…
you’ve thought that time and again…
thought it about a dozen men
in a dozen different ways…
so, here you stand again –
poised upon the same precipice…
ready to fall into god only knows what –
but what’s the price you’ll pay?
will you lose yourself?
they’ve tried to drown you before –
tried to take the essence of you…
rip it from your soul.
will you lose your vision?
the emotions and doubt tend to
cloud your views, ya know?
cloud your purpose and resolve…
poised upon the precipice,
ready to make that leap…
yet, you hesitate for a moment –
what makes this man worth it?
poised upon the precipice,
ready to take the leap…
but why now?
what makes this different than
a million times before-
different man, different age
but you’re still the same you
you’ve stood before that door,
ready to knock –
ready to announce yourself
to him and his world
and yet, you hesitated –
held back the largest part of you,
afraid to share the fears,
the hopes, the dreams
held back the largest part
because you knew he’d
swallow you whole –
swallow your soul like so many before
so what makes you think
this man is any different
than the ones who’ve come before –
or may even come afterward?
so the defenses have fallen?
haven’t they come down before,
only to be bruised and abused,
and put back in iron?
so your soul is at peace…
you’ve thought that time and again…
thought it about a dozen men
in a dozen different ways…
so, here you stand again –
poised upon the same precipice…
ready to fall into god only knows what –
but what’s the price you’ll pay?
will you lose yourself?
they’ve tried to drown you before –
tried to take the essence of you…
rip it from your soul.
will you lose your vision?
the emotions and doubt tend to
cloud your views, ya know?
cloud your purpose and resolve…
poised upon the precipice,
ready to make that leap…
yet, you hesitate for a moment –
what makes this man worth it?
Please (Passion's Pleadings)
feather soft kisses perfume the air
with a musty, tangy scent
tangled hearts and tangled limbs
search for one another…
please, she whispered, please
doubt hung on a word, so simple –
so stifling – hung as oppressively
as summer heat in your room…
doubts from the past…
please, she whispered, please
pressing, clinging –
tighter, tighter, tighter yet –
feeling one another…
intimately, completely…
please, she whispered, please
please love me
with a musty, tangy scent
tangled hearts and tangled limbs
search for one another…
please, she whispered, please
doubt hung on a word, so simple –
so stifling – hung as oppressively
as summer heat in your room…
doubts from the past…
please, she whispered, please
pressing, clinging –
tighter, tighter, tighter yet –
feeling one another…
intimately, completely…
please, she whispered, please
please love me
Please
slow, sultry, slinking
smoky heat rising
sparks flare, reaching
tasting touching
flying higher, higher
never to touch down
please – fuck me, she whispered
biting, ripping, sucking
cloth floats down
touching tasting
fiery consumed skin
rushing past the edge
and flying higher
please – fuck me, she whispered
moaning whimpering
suddenly crying out
digging scratching
drawing deep… drawing blood
pushing back, harder harder
and flying higher
please – fuck me, she whispered
writhing moving
passion flared
collapsing breathless
just barely clinging
flying higher higher
and floating down
please – fuck me, she whispered
smoky heat rising
sparks flare, reaching
tasting touching
flying higher, higher
never to touch down
please – fuck me, she whispered
biting, ripping, sucking
cloth floats down
touching tasting
fiery consumed skin
rushing past the edge
and flying higher
please – fuck me, she whispered
moaning whimpering
suddenly crying out
digging scratching
drawing deep… drawing blood
pushing back, harder harder
and flying higher
please – fuck me, she whispered
writhing moving
passion flared
collapsing breathless
just barely clinging
flying higher higher
and floating down
please – fuck me, she whispered
Peace
in a dawn pink with
sunrise, swelling redbuds,
and clusters of apple blossoms,
a soul could find momentary
peace.
a south breeze brought the
scent of lilacs and sweet fennel
to tickle your nostrils,
filling your mind with solitary
peace.
silver poplars towered above,
their roots extending like giant claws,
robbing the rich soil of grass and
blocking the noonday sun for resting
peace.
to sit in the coolness of an
early spring night and watch
the shadows move in over the prairies,
you knew you were finally home -
home where your heart can sing.
home
where you can always find a tranquil
peace.
sunrise, swelling redbuds,
and clusters of apple blossoms,
a soul could find momentary
peace.
a south breeze brought the
scent of lilacs and sweet fennel
to tickle your nostrils,
filling your mind with solitary
peace.
silver poplars towered above,
their roots extending like giant claws,
robbing the rich soil of grass and
blocking the noonday sun for resting
peace.
to sit in the coolness of an
early spring night and watch
the shadows move in over the prairies,
you knew you were finally home -
home where your heart can sing.
home
where you can always find a tranquil
peace.
Passion
feverishly typing at his keyboard,
he chuckled to himself.
the feeling he got when writing
was pure, unadulterated fun.
anything that felt this good
must surely be a sin,
he had been told growing up.
he had always disagreed.
doing what you love,
he’d told his opponents,
is like being given a license to steal.
and after fifteen years in the business,
he had become a master thief.
he chuckled to himself.
the feeling he got when writing
was pure, unadulterated fun.
anything that felt this good
must surely be a sin,
he had been told growing up.
he had always disagreed.
doing what you love,
he’d told his opponents,
is like being given a license to steal.
and after fifteen years in the business,
he had become a master thief.
The Offer
a generous offer is what it was –
one that would remove us from
this little plastic and metallic box
and speed us into the real world.
an offer that would place me
within arms reach and
staring into your intense gaze –
looking for the smallest of signs.
waiting to reach out and feel
the warmth of your hand
enveloping my small one –
needing to feel that in my soul.
do I take the offer? do I go for it?
the answer hangs in the balance –
do I say yes or do I say no?
the answer is up to you.
one that would remove us from
this little plastic and metallic box
and speed us into the real world.
an offer that would place me
within arms reach and
staring into your intense gaze –
looking for the smallest of signs.
waiting to reach out and feel
the warmth of your hand
enveloping my small one –
needing to feel that in my soul.
do I take the offer? do I go for it?
the answer hangs in the balance –
do I say yes or do I say no?
the answer is up to you.
Night Closes In
night closes in and the doubts resurface
once again, i'm left to wonder why –
why i have allowed myself to back,
allowed myself to enter this place again
night brings to life those doubts,
those worries that plague a sane mind
turning you into a raving lunatic –
crashing your hopes in one lonely night…
optimism crashes and burns in
white hot flames at your very feet,
and your mind takes you down a darkened path
of what might never be…
living another day without –
without ever doing those little things
that make your heart soar above the clouds
and make your head swim with glee…
living without ever looking into
his warm, inviting eyes as you reach up
to touch the soft skin of his face with
the gentlest of caresses…
living without ever kissing
his incredible lips as you’re pressed
into the warmth of his chest and
wrapped in the safety of his arms…
living without staying up half the night,
talking to him as you already do,
without the interference of the phone or
the harsh glare of a computer screen…
living without drifting off to dream,
safe and surrounded by his scent –
drifting off to the lilting tones of
the song you have picked as your own…
living without waking up in the morning,
finding you’re still next to him –
that it wasn’t a dream this time to
drive you crazy with longing…
living without looking into his eyes,
touching his skin, surrounded by him,
feeling the heat of his gaze on your skin
as you make love throughout the night
living without knowing if we had a chance –
just that smallest chance to be something
more than the confines of the box …
the confines of the phone will allow…
living without ever exploring the connection –
that earth-shattering, heart-wrenching
soul mate connection that you feel at
just the mention of his name…
no, you realize now that night is no longer
your friend, if indeed it ever was,
for night is when fantasies come out to play
and doubts drown you while you sleep.
once again, i'm left to wonder why –
why i have allowed myself to back,
allowed myself to enter this place again
night brings to life those doubts,
those worries that plague a sane mind
turning you into a raving lunatic –
crashing your hopes in one lonely night…
optimism crashes and burns in
white hot flames at your very feet,
and your mind takes you down a darkened path
of what might never be…
living another day without –
without ever doing those little things
that make your heart soar above the clouds
and make your head swim with glee…
living without ever looking into
his warm, inviting eyes as you reach up
to touch the soft skin of his face with
the gentlest of caresses…
living without ever kissing
his incredible lips as you’re pressed
into the warmth of his chest and
wrapped in the safety of his arms…
living without staying up half the night,
talking to him as you already do,
without the interference of the phone or
the harsh glare of a computer screen…
living without drifting off to dream,
safe and surrounded by his scent –
drifting off to the lilting tones of
the song you have picked as your own…
living without waking up in the morning,
finding you’re still next to him –
that it wasn’t a dream this time to
drive you crazy with longing…
living without looking into his eyes,
touching his skin, surrounded by him,
feeling the heat of his gaze on your skin
as you make love throughout the night
living without knowing if we had a chance –
just that smallest chance to be something
more than the confines of the box …
the confines of the phone will allow…
living without ever exploring the connection –
that earth-shattering, heart-wrenching
soul mate connection that you feel at
just the mention of his name…
no, you realize now that night is no longer
your friend, if indeed it ever was,
for night is when fantasies come out to play
and doubts drown you while you sleep.
Midnight Musings at Ten-Thirty
sitting here, staring at the cursor
“compose me,” it whispers
with fetid breath – breath carried
on unmentioned promises
the words just won’t come –
their flow forever interrupted
by the edit button of my mind…
interrupted before I can regret
“do it,” my mind screams…
“do what you want – email him; call;
stand on the roof and scream –
just let him know.”
respect for your personal space
is all that stops me – prevents me
from giving in to the promise
that little voice whispers in my ear
arms wrapped around my pillow at night,
my soul crying and wishing it was you –
the need to hold you overwhelming…
so damn compelling.
talking to my best friend, staying up all night,
just for the chance to mention your name
or speak of my feelings for you –
reduces me to tears time after lonely time.
“compose me,” the cursor whispers again,
an acrid whisper sent on the broken dreams
of a jaded woman so many times hurt.
“compose or just close me down.”
a voice in the background sings of love –
love unrequited and left behind
in the search of something better…
something more fulfilling.
here I sit, in this dark little space,
desperately hoping – waiting anxiously
for the moment you deem me worthy
enough to shine your light of notice upon
wallowing in self-doubts and hollowness
only worsened by time and distance
between us – time and distance which
swallow any light in my soul.
maybe just for a moment –
it doesn’t have to be longer than that –
you can drop your emotional guards
and allow me to cross your mind
biding time for your decision…
does the concept of “us” fill you
with the same exhilaration
filling my heart and soul?
biding my time for you to decide –
am I worth your precious time?
I know I must be your best kept secret
as none of your friends know me.
sitting, waiting, wondering –
wanting so much to contact you
and not allowing myself –
refusing to give into temptation.
wanting you to let me
into your life.
“compose me,” it whispers
with fetid breath – breath carried
on unmentioned promises
the words just won’t come –
their flow forever interrupted
by the edit button of my mind…
interrupted before I can regret
“do it,” my mind screams…
“do what you want – email him; call;
stand on the roof and scream –
just let him know.”
respect for your personal space
is all that stops me – prevents me
from giving in to the promise
that little voice whispers in my ear
arms wrapped around my pillow at night,
my soul crying and wishing it was you –
the need to hold you overwhelming…
so damn compelling.
talking to my best friend, staying up all night,
just for the chance to mention your name
or speak of my feelings for you –
reduces me to tears time after lonely time.
“compose me,” the cursor whispers again,
an acrid whisper sent on the broken dreams
of a jaded woman so many times hurt.
“compose or just close me down.”
a voice in the background sings of love –
love unrequited and left behind
in the search of something better…
something more fulfilling.
here I sit, in this dark little space,
desperately hoping – waiting anxiously
for the moment you deem me worthy
enough to shine your light of notice upon
wallowing in self-doubts and hollowness
only worsened by time and distance
between us – time and distance which
swallow any light in my soul.
maybe just for a moment –
it doesn’t have to be longer than that –
you can drop your emotional guards
and allow me to cross your mind
biding time for your decision…
does the concept of “us” fill you
with the same exhilaration
filling my heart and soul?
biding my time for you to decide –
am I worth your precious time?
I know I must be your best kept secret
as none of your friends know me.
sitting, waiting, wondering –
wanting so much to contact you
and not allowing myself –
refusing to give into temptation.
wanting you to let me
into your life.
Masquerade
there was something there –
something in his eyes dark, drowning,
and older than it should have been.
his eyes were the clearest mirrors and
the look was far too intimate –
she reeled back as if that almost gentle touch
was a massive blow to her senses
tasting the first edge of tears,
his eyes lit over her like
that part of them they trap in dreams
and deny during daylight hours.
the tension was there –
painted in neon Crayola flashes
and left hanging for all to see.
their passion twisted and flared
like candle flames in the pale light –
cool, white flames like
that full moonlight which attracts
the lone wolf on his hunt –
helping to pull them through and
reach what they hoped was an endless night.
so start the masquerade –
play the music, don the mask,
and take this illusion in disguise.
as she danced that passionate night
with her only love – this stranger pressed to her –
she scorned the truth of it all
and needed only the lies.
something in his eyes dark, drowning,
and older than it should have been.
his eyes were the clearest mirrors and
the look was far too intimate –
she reeled back as if that almost gentle touch
was a massive blow to her senses
tasting the first edge of tears,
his eyes lit over her like
that part of them they trap in dreams
and deny during daylight hours.
the tension was there –
painted in neon Crayola flashes
and left hanging for all to see.
their passion twisted and flared
like candle flames in the pale light –
cool, white flames like
that full moonlight which attracts
the lone wolf on his hunt –
helping to pull them through and
reach what they hoped was an endless night.
so start the masquerade –
play the music, don the mask,
and take this illusion in disguise.
as she danced that passionate night
with her only love – this stranger pressed to her –
she scorned the truth of it all
and needed only the lies.
Love's Melody
she was standing much closer,
so close he could feel
her warm breath soft on his chin.
the room was full of people
and he should feel the agony of something
sharp pressed into his back,
but he sensed none of it—
the room was filled with her alone.
her face was intriguingly beautiful;
her clear blue eyes were
sparkling like large wet crystals;
and her voice,
almost a whisper,
was flat as a Kansas plain
and somehow musical,
like one long, endless note
played on an exotic instrument.
and soft—
so soft he longed to touch it
as a child might a butterfly’s wing.
but he only listened
because he could do nothing else.
so close he could feel
her warm breath soft on his chin.
the room was full of people
and he should feel the agony of something
sharp pressed into his back,
but he sensed none of it—
the room was filled with her alone.
her face was intriguingly beautiful;
her clear blue eyes were
sparkling like large wet crystals;
and her voice,
almost a whisper,
was flat as a Kansas plain
and somehow musical,
like one long, endless note
played on an exotic instrument.
and soft—
so soft he longed to touch it
as a child might a butterfly’s wing.
but he only listened
because he could do nothing else.
Love
just fantasy
conjured out of thin air
by cruel wordsmiths
with razor sharp pens,
set to carve out
inky scars into
my heart.
conjured out of thin air
by cruel wordsmiths
with razor sharp pens,
set to carve out
inky scars into
my heart.
It's Not For You
just a whisper sent on
sweet cloying decaying breath –
“it’s not for you”
overwhelmed – drowning –
looking for a way out and
losing yourself further under water
and that whisper –
breathless in your soul –
“it’s not for you”
doubts and fears –
nagging onward –
pushing you into oblivion
and a whisper, soft as feathers,
playing in your ear –
“it’s not for you”
so many times before,
poised upon a parapet…
ready to soar on wings of gold
yet that whisper
caresses your skin –
“it’s not for you”
pushed into the freeing sky –
pushed before learning to fly –
and falling towards oblivion
the whisper floats on,
burrowing into your soul…
“it’s not for you”
crashing, tumbling,
a broken soul –
once again, you feel the pain
and the whisper,
so sweet – so deadly-
“it’s not for you”
why risk it?
you know the end results –
left standing in the rain
with that whisper,
soft as death,
“it’s not for you”
with a certainty you’ve never felt,
you know that this is it…
the last time you’ll feel the pain
because the whisper,
so clear and strong –
“it’s not for you”
and in the quiet of the dreary dark,
the nagging and doubts
scream instead of talk…
but there’s always that whisper…
quiet but there…
“it’s not for you”
screaming, crying,
punching the wall…
why risk this at all?
the whisper agrees –
purrs thoughts into your ear –
“it’s not for you”
dizzy, drowning,
not sure which way to go…
looking for those arms to hold…
and the whisper,
taker of hope –
“it’s not for you”
when, you scream –
just fucking when?
when will it be my turn?
and that whisper, smugly replies…
“never”
“it’s not for you”
finding the arms outstretched,
you rush to their safety
if only for a moment
the whisper laughs –
meanly, manically –
“it’s not for you”
then, as suddenly as it began,
those arms – they push you away –
push you back over the ledge…
and the whisper,
cool and calm and collected
“it’s not for you”
your soul breaks –
shattered again –
and you sink into nothingness…
realizing that the whisper,
always there, was correct…
“it’s not for you”
sweet cloying decaying breath –
“it’s not for you”
overwhelmed – drowning –
looking for a way out and
losing yourself further under water
and that whisper –
breathless in your soul –
“it’s not for you”
doubts and fears –
nagging onward –
pushing you into oblivion
and a whisper, soft as feathers,
playing in your ear –
“it’s not for you”
so many times before,
poised upon a parapet…
ready to soar on wings of gold
yet that whisper
caresses your skin –
“it’s not for you”
pushed into the freeing sky –
pushed before learning to fly –
and falling towards oblivion
the whisper floats on,
burrowing into your soul…
“it’s not for you”
crashing, tumbling,
a broken soul –
once again, you feel the pain
and the whisper,
so sweet – so deadly-
“it’s not for you”
why risk it?
you know the end results –
left standing in the rain
with that whisper,
soft as death,
“it’s not for you”
with a certainty you’ve never felt,
you know that this is it…
the last time you’ll feel the pain
because the whisper,
so clear and strong –
“it’s not for you”
and in the quiet of the dreary dark,
the nagging and doubts
scream instead of talk…
but there’s always that whisper…
quiet but there…
“it’s not for you”
screaming, crying,
punching the wall…
why risk this at all?
the whisper agrees –
purrs thoughts into your ear –
“it’s not for you”
dizzy, drowning,
not sure which way to go…
looking for those arms to hold…
and the whisper,
taker of hope –
“it’s not for you”
when, you scream –
just fucking when?
when will it be my turn?
and that whisper, smugly replies…
“never”
“it’s not for you”
finding the arms outstretched,
you rush to their safety
if only for a moment
the whisper laughs –
meanly, manically –
“it’s not for you”
then, as suddenly as it began,
those arms – they push you away –
push you back over the ledge…
and the whisper,
cool and calm and collected
“it’s not for you”
your soul breaks –
shattered again –
and you sink into nothingness…
realizing that the whisper,
always there, was correct…
“it’s not for you”
Honesty
in a world where truth is lies
and scorn is cast by millions of eyes,
you need an anchor to tie you to
the seedier side of truth.
you can always find emotion - lust,
anger, depression - it's all a bust
if you cannot find the special one
who will tell the truth til time is done.
someone who may not always be wise
but someone whose words you know are not lies
someone whose heart is always there
someone who shows how much he does care.
emotions, it's true, change all the time -
they change with the wind, season, or rhyme.
but if you want to know if someone is really for you,
examine their honesty - find out if they're true.
and scorn is cast by millions of eyes,
you need an anchor to tie you to
the seedier side of truth.
you can always find emotion - lust,
anger, depression - it's all a bust
if you cannot find the special one
who will tell the truth til time is done.
someone who may not always be wise
but someone whose words you know are not lies
someone whose heart is always there
someone who shows how much he does care.
emotions, it's true, change all the time -
they change with the wind, season, or rhyme.
but if you want to know if someone is really for you,
examine their honesty - find out if they're true.
Hatred
his vision went red—
the raw fury he felt
was almost blinding,
and the urge to slam
his fist through the wall
was incredible.
he could feel his blood
racing through his veins,
and his heart was beating
quicker and quicker to
keep up with the surge.
it wasn’t often this feeling
came over him but
when it did,
no one was safe
from the power of
his hatred.
the raw fury he felt
was almost blinding,
and the urge to slam
his fist through the wall
was incredible.
he could feel his blood
racing through his veins,
and his heart was beating
quicker and quicker to
keep up with the surge.
it wasn’t often this feeling
came over him but
when it did,
no one was safe
from the power of
his hatred.
Hopelessness
you feel yourself sinking—
farther and farther—
into an endless, inky abyss.
everywhere you turn,
another wall inches closer
to crush your hopes and dreams.
you fall farther into the despair,
drowning in the sorrow and pain.
how did this happen?
where did it all go wrong?
you hold your knees to your chest,
pondering these thoughts as
you slowly perish in hopelessness.
farther and farther—
into an endless, inky abyss.
everywhere you turn,
another wall inches closer
to crush your hopes and dreams.
you fall farther into the despair,
drowning in the sorrow and pain.
how did this happen?
where did it all go wrong?
you hold your knees to your chest,
pondering these thoughts as
you slowly perish in hopelessness.
Hollow
there’s a hollowness – echoing and aching –
welling up from the deepest little part of me…
threatening to swallow me from the inside out,
drowning me in a grief so deep you never recover.
blossoming from the pit of my stomach and
slithering ever closer to my heart,
it corrupts and decays the most pleasant memories…
corrupts the youth of your mind.
there is no escape – your sublimation is inevitable.
this aching chasm will possess you,
turning your world from day to night…
viciously devouring your soul.
welling up from the deepest little part of me…
threatening to swallow me from the inside out,
drowning me in a grief so deep you never recover.
blossoming from the pit of my stomach and
slithering ever closer to my heart,
it corrupts and decays the most pleasant memories…
corrupts the youth of your mind.
there is no escape – your sublimation is inevitable.
this aching chasm will possess you,
turning your world from day to night…
viciously devouring your soul.
Harsh Light (A Daylight Rambling)
in the harsh light of day,
the very viciousness of human nature
is revealed in all its stark ugliness…
the strife, the lies, the apathy –
the total disregard for one’s fellow man
you see the same wherever you go –
people just looking out for “#1”
but never looking about themselves
to see how their narcissistic attitudes
destroy all chances for tenderness…
yet, by this same harsh light,
the very essence of human nature
appears as if lit by a spotlight…
people gravitating towards one another,
trying to find some small comfort.
they feel it wherever they go,
the urge to find the one who completes –
the one who knows the deepest, darkest
dregs of their soul and fantastically
chooses to stay because they care.
in this harsh light of day,
you choose to see what you wish –
whether it’s seeing the stark cruelty
of your surroundings or
an examination of the gentler side of human nature
whichever you choose to examine,
just know that it is your choice…
it is your choice whether you feel
the deepest despair infecting you or
the elation of finding that one true one.
the very viciousness of human nature
is revealed in all its stark ugliness…
the strife, the lies, the apathy –
the total disregard for one’s fellow man
you see the same wherever you go –
people just looking out for “#1”
but never looking about themselves
to see how their narcissistic attitudes
destroy all chances for tenderness…
yet, by this same harsh light,
the very essence of human nature
appears as if lit by a spotlight…
people gravitating towards one another,
trying to find some small comfort.
they feel it wherever they go,
the urge to find the one who completes –
the one who knows the deepest, darkest
dregs of their soul and fantastically
chooses to stay because they care.
in this harsh light of day,
you choose to see what you wish –
whether it’s seeing the stark cruelty
of your surroundings or
an examination of the gentler side of human nature
whichever you choose to examine,
just know that it is your choice…
it is your choice whether you feel
the deepest despair infecting you or
the elation of finding that one true one.
Grief
it washed over him in
a powerful wave—
grief so strong
he broke down immediately.
this was grief so strong that
he felt as if every pore in
his body was weeping—
not just his eyes.
he placed the frail,
lifeless body within the
shallow grave, and
his heart broke in two.
not normally an
overly emotional man,
this premature death still
haunted him.
he began to cover the grave,
reflecting upon the good times with
his best friend—his dog—
as he did.
a powerful wave—
grief so strong
he broke down immediately.
this was grief so strong that
he felt as if every pore in
his body was weeping—
not just his eyes.
he placed the frail,
lifeless body within the
shallow grave, and
his heart broke in two.
not normally an
overly emotional man,
this premature death still
haunted him.
he began to cover the grave,
reflecting upon the good times with
his best friend—his dog—
as he did.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Freefall
my heart plunges out of control
in a spiraling freefall,
rushing faster and faster
towards a tomblike doom.
while in your arms,
i soared on angelic wings--
floating on the cotton candy clouds.
now that we're apart,
i welcome the parachuteless fall from grace
and gratefully embrace the numbness
of an eternity in a loveless void.
in a spiraling freefall,
rushing faster and faster
towards a tomblike doom.
while in your arms,
i soared on angelic wings--
floating on the cotton candy clouds.
now that we're apart,
i welcome the parachuteless fall from grace
and gratefully embrace the numbness
of an eternity in a loveless void.
The First Realization of Love
water rippled like quicksilver,
molten and gleaming in the moonlight.
he stood against the railing,
her face –
a face all at once the plainest
yet also the most beautiful –
dancing on the waves before his gaze.
night collected around him
like a black flame coming on
a warm, flower-scented breeze.
the shadows were viscous –
seemingly thick enough to touch –
as they clung to him like the
perfumed kisses sent on a whisper.
he loved her –
just uttering that emotion aloud,
he savoured the word –
letting it slowly melt
like the innocent sweetness of
a first taste of sugar,
coating the surface of your tongue.
he could hear it in the beating waves –
the wind whispered it as it blew
promises of tomorrow into his ear,
and when the rain fell,
it was tears of happiness
washing away the broken pieces of
yesterday’s dreary life.
molten and gleaming in the moonlight.
he stood against the railing,
her face –
a face all at once the plainest
yet also the most beautiful –
dancing on the waves before his gaze.
night collected around him
like a black flame coming on
a warm, flower-scented breeze.
the shadows were viscous –
seemingly thick enough to touch –
as they clung to him like the
perfumed kisses sent on a whisper.
he loved her –
just uttering that emotion aloud,
he savoured the word –
letting it slowly melt
like the innocent sweetness of
a first taste of sugar,
coating the surface of your tongue.
he could hear it in the beating waves –
the wind whispered it as it blew
promises of tomorrow into his ear,
and when the rain fell,
it was tears of happiness
washing away the broken pieces of
yesterday’s dreary life.
Falling In Love
phenylethylamine, dopamine, norepinephrine –
an ingredient list with which everyone has been familiar …
the chemicals making you feel “in love”
these chemicals – harmless enough considered alone –
fester forever in some nook or cranny of the human psyche
just waiting to bleed again when the proper stimulus strikes
someone’s direct eye contact triggers a primitive part –
a primitive forgotten piece of the normal human brain –
calling forth one of two reactions – approach or retreat
eyes flutter up to an unknown face, like butterflies
returning to the warm, golden sunshine after a rainstorm –
unsettling, primal, sexy… eyes stuck to the man with warm taffy
the visual voyage stays emblazoned in your memory forever…
your heart speeds leaving you in a delirious drowning –
your throat dries as dragons devour your devotion
your consciousness comes together and comes apart –
and then comes together again in pulses and patterns,
like standing in the desert sun and feeling you’re in shade
you approach, your confidence shattering around like
the dry crackling of a winter cold windshield as it
warms and cools – then warms again
your conversation with him is like making love,
a microwomb of emotional propinquity surrounding you
as you ignore the sulky mockeries of crucified smiles
an ingredient list with which everyone has been familiar …
the chemicals making you feel “in love”
these chemicals – harmless enough considered alone –
fester forever in some nook or cranny of the human psyche
just waiting to bleed again when the proper stimulus strikes
someone’s direct eye contact triggers a primitive part –
a primitive forgotten piece of the normal human brain –
calling forth one of two reactions – approach or retreat
eyes flutter up to an unknown face, like butterflies
returning to the warm, golden sunshine after a rainstorm –
unsettling, primal, sexy… eyes stuck to the man with warm taffy
the visual voyage stays emblazoned in your memory forever…
your heart speeds leaving you in a delirious drowning –
your throat dries as dragons devour your devotion
your consciousness comes together and comes apart –
and then comes together again in pulses and patterns,
like standing in the desert sun and feeling you’re in shade
you approach, your confidence shattering around like
the dry crackling of a winter cold windshield as it
warms and cools – then warms again
your conversation with him is like making love,
a microwomb of emotional propinquity surrounding you
as you ignore the sulky mockeries of crucified smiles
Falling (A Cinquain)
falling
in passion’s arms
without a net to catch
my warm heart as i fall deeper
in love.
falling
into love’s gaze
as he embraces my heart
with the purity and depth of
his soul.
falling
deeper into
a place i promised i'd
never fall into again in
my life.
falling
from the heights of
sensibility down
into the depths of love’s tender
mercies.
in passion’s arms
without a net to catch
my warm heart as i fall deeper
in love.
falling
into love’s gaze
as he embraces my heart
with the purity and depth of
his soul.
falling
deeper into
a place i promised i'd
never fall into again in
my life.
falling
from the heights of
sensibility down
into the depths of love’s tender
mercies.
Dreams At Dawn
amber, crimson, and violet streak across the sky –
prismatic hues to dance before my eyes
dawn’s pale horse has ridden in to
light the edges of the day
i shrink back from the light of day –
light that burns to the touch –
wishing, willing myself again towards
the comforting embrace of sleep
‘tho’ just a dream, it felt so real –
the touch of your hand,
the scent of your skin,
the feel of your body next to mine
i groan and stretch and sigh inside,
hoping it will lessen the desperate
ache hollowing out a notch
in the depths of my heart
cursing daylight’s cruel invasion,
i remind myself that ‘tis just another day –
another day that brings us one more closer
to the realization of a dream.
prismatic hues to dance before my eyes
dawn’s pale horse has ridden in to
light the edges of the day
i shrink back from the light of day –
light that burns to the touch –
wishing, willing myself again towards
the comforting embrace of sleep
‘tho’ just a dream, it felt so real –
the touch of your hand,
the scent of your skin,
the feel of your body next to mine
i groan and stretch and sigh inside,
hoping it will lessen the desperate
ache hollowing out a notch
in the depths of my heart
cursing daylight’s cruel invasion,
i remind myself that ‘tis just another day –
another day that brings us one more closer
to the realization of a dream.
Disjointed
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings are all
that protect my wounded heart
i live in fear that someday –
someday very soon –
the knife will plunge,
plunge so deep and carve
out the last piece left whole
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings are all
that quell the torment
in the light of day –
those awful wounds that
hide in day’s presence…
those awful words and deeds
that would bring you to your knees
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings are what
bring me to my knees by
the light of the moon –
those wounds exposed,
open, raw, and painful…
those wounds that bring
the walls crashing down
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – you’ve
been here before…
been here as you held that blade
over your wrist and prayed
for sweet mercy from the
pain and cries echoing
out from your heart
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – they’ve
whispered in your ear
more times than not…
whispered as you lay there,
unable to awaken,
reliving it over and over –
wanting to die.
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – your friend?
or are they your enemy?
able to protect you from your past
while bringing up every wounds,
those thoughts and ramblings
are all that surround you
in the depths of night.
inane ramblings are all
that protect my wounded heart
i live in fear that someday –
someday very soon –
the knife will plunge,
plunge so deep and carve
out the last piece left whole
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings are all
that quell the torment
in the light of day –
those awful wounds that
hide in day’s presence…
those awful words and deeds
that would bring you to your knees
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings are what
bring me to my knees by
the light of the moon –
those wounds exposed,
open, raw, and painful…
those wounds that bring
the walls crashing down
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – you’ve
been here before…
been here as you held that blade
over your wrist and prayed
for sweet mercy from the
pain and cries echoing
out from your heart
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – they’ve
whispered in your ear
more times than not…
whispered as you lay there,
unable to awaken,
reliving it over and over –
wanting to die.
disjointed thoughts and
inane ramblings – your friend?
or are they your enemy?
able to protect you from your past
while bringing up every wounds,
those thoughts and ramblings
are all that surround you
in the depths of night.
Disgrace
slapping, shoving, punching –
that’s all we have left
the screaming, yelling –
we’ve forgotten how to talk
you never believed in me –
not once in all these years –
i was just your disgrace to
hide in a closet
we fight, we argue –
it never ends –
and you wonder where that
look of fear came from
you never believed –
not when he hurt me, not
when i almost died –
i was just your disgrace
you point, you accuse –
you never comfort –
a hug is something held for
only those you love
once you said your biggest mistake
was bringing a daughter into the world –
while i cowered in the corner,
my soul ripped from my body
so now we’re here –
estranged with no way back –
and you cry and accuse,
telling me it’s all my fault
the yelling, the fighting –
it’s all we have left –
because i was just the disgrace
you wanted hidden forever
that’s all we have left
the screaming, yelling –
we’ve forgotten how to talk
you never believed in me –
not once in all these years –
i was just your disgrace to
hide in a closet
we fight, we argue –
it never ends –
and you wonder where that
look of fear came from
you never believed –
not when he hurt me, not
when i almost died –
i was just your disgrace
you point, you accuse –
you never comfort –
a hug is something held for
only those you love
once you said your biggest mistake
was bringing a daughter into the world –
while i cowered in the corner,
my soul ripped from my body
so now we’re here –
estranged with no way back –
and you cry and accuse,
telling me it’s all my fault
the yelling, the fighting –
it’s all we have left –
because i was just the disgrace
you wanted hidden forever
Desperation
summer people—
that’s what town folk
called them.
she reflected upon this
as she sat upon her
king-sized bed,
handcuffed to the headboard.
what had started out
as a bit of a playful romp with
her husband of 22 years
had turned into a nightmare.
some petty thief had broken into
their summer home and
killed her husband.
the thief had then
secured her to the posts.
now, she sat
lonely…
cold…
desperate…
listening to a dog
howl across the lake
and wondering if
anyone would ever find her.
that’s what town folk
called them.
she reflected upon this
as she sat upon her
king-sized bed,
handcuffed to the headboard.
what had started out
as a bit of a playful romp with
her husband of 22 years
had turned into a nightmare.
some petty thief had broken into
their summer home and
killed her husband.
the thief had then
secured her to the posts.
now, she sat
lonely…
cold…
desperate…
listening to a dog
howl across the lake
and wondering if
anyone would ever find her.
Despair
the walls were closing in on her.
one more wrong and
her world would go black.
it was hard to swallow,
and she couldn’t think straight.
what had happened,
she wondered.
what had gone wrong?
trying hard to
ignore the racing of
her heart
and the pounding in her head,
she tried to put an end to
these feelings of
utter despair.
one more wrong and
her world would go black.
it was hard to swallow,
and she couldn’t think straight.
what had happened,
she wondered.
what had gone wrong?
trying hard to
ignore the racing of
her heart
and the pounding in her head,
she tried to put an end to
these feelings of
utter despair.
Daybreak
he watched the pale threads of
dawn’s first light spread throughout
the still of the small room.
he reveled in the sound of
her rhythmic, even breathing and
inhaled deeply of the fresh scent
which naturally emanated from her.
he loved the way that the pale
pinks and oranges of sunrise
gave her skin an ethereal glow.
he checked the clock—
it read 5 a.m.—
and he decided to let her sleep
a while longer,
so he could just watch her beauty.
when you’re in bed with someone you love,
he thought,
especially for the first time,
it seems so holy…
so blessed…
so perfectly right.
dawn’s first light spread throughout
the still of the small room.
he reveled in the sound of
her rhythmic, even breathing and
inhaled deeply of the fresh scent
which naturally emanated from her.
he loved the way that the pale
pinks and oranges of sunrise
gave her skin an ethereal glow.
he checked the clock—
it read 5 a.m.—
and he decided to let her sleep
a while longer,
so he could just watch her beauty.
when you’re in bed with someone you love,
he thought,
especially for the first time,
it seems so holy…
so blessed…
so perfectly right.
Cool, Quiet Dark
tic, tic, tic – a lone clock signals
time’s slow passage towards eternity
tap tap tap – the cold rain pours
down upon a weathered roof
eerily, slowly the chill seeps into
the corners of my room
the quiet dark surrounds me like
a cool glove wrapped around my senses
a peace enters my heart and
for the first time my head is clear
a mysticism too old for my youth
fills my soul and calls to me
in a quiet dark that most would shun
i embrace it… embrace it for the
spiritual renewal it brings to a
chaotic soul who yearned for the
peace that only finding a rarity –
a true mate – could bring
still, i sit in the cool, quiet dark –
sit and imagine the life that will be
a life of peace, harmony, and love…
a contentment found by few
a time in which the heart and mind speak
as one in cadence with the soul
i muse about a world in which one’s
thoughts and feelings are precious –
more precious than gold, silver, or jewels –
where finding someone to listen
is not an unobtainable goal but is
already within my grasp.
i sit in this cool, quiet dark –
my heart and mind full of peace –
and i patiently wait…
wait for the time when i am no longer
alone in the dark but
alone with you.
time’s slow passage towards eternity
tap tap tap – the cold rain pours
down upon a weathered roof
eerily, slowly the chill seeps into
the corners of my room
the quiet dark surrounds me like
a cool glove wrapped around my senses
a peace enters my heart and
for the first time my head is clear
a mysticism too old for my youth
fills my soul and calls to me
in a quiet dark that most would shun
i embrace it… embrace it for the
spiritual renewal it brings to a
chaotic soul who yearned for the
peace that only finding a rarity –
a true mate – could bring
still, i sit in the cool, quiet dark –
sit and imagine the life that will be
a life of peace, harmony, and love…
a contentment found by few
a time in which the heart and mind speak
as one in cadence with the soul
i muse about a world in which one’s
thoughts and feelings are precious –
more precious than gold, silver, or jewels –
where finding someone to listen
is not an unobtainable goal but is
already within my grasp.
i sit in this cool, quiet dark –
my heart and mind full of peace –
and i patiently wait…
wait for the time when i am no longer
alone in the dark but
alone with you.
Broken Window
images rushing, whirling, out of control -
overwhelmed, my senses go insane.
the wind and rain driving hard and fast –
crescendo in their own symphonic tempest;
the trees groaning, cracking, straining
under the weight of mother nature's fury.
soil and rain colliding together, assaulting
my nose with the purest, sweetest, cologne.
i sit at my broken window,
watching the storm play around me
as a child with a new toy
a thunder clap commands my attention
and i look out into this raging storm,
not knowing what i expect to see
but knowing that i must look -
that i must see what nature's fury
has wrought just for me
sitting still at that broken window
while the storm beats an angry drum
in this outdoor symphony
leaves fall in colors too many to name –
fall to their final resting place amid
long, brown stalks that once housed
beautiful flowers twisting in the gale
and fireweed, still pink `tho’ blooms are gone,
delicately creeps closer to winter
using that broken window
as my portal to the world, waiting
to enter the untamed savagery
through the hissing rain and swirling leaves
a ghostly face is visible in the torrents -
a beautiful face not there in reality…
only existing in the depths of my heart,
my mind, and painted upon my soul –
the perfect face of my soul mate
as i sit at that broken window,
waiting for you to come join me
as i am playing in the rain
overwhelmed, my senses go insane.
the wind and rain driving hard and fast –
crescendo in their own symphonic tempest;
the trees groaning, cracking, straining
under the weight of mother nature's fury.
soil and rain colliding together, assaulting
my nose with the purest, sweetest, cologne.
i sit at my broken window,
watching the storm play around me
as a child with a new toy
a thunder clap commands my attention
and i look out into this raging storm,
not knowing what i expect to see
but knowing that i must look -
that i must see what nature's fury
has wrought just for me
sitting still at that broken window
while the storm beats an angry drum
in this outdoor symphony
leaves fall in colors too many to name –
fall to their final resting place amid
long, brown stalks that once housed
beautiful flowers twisting in the gale
and fireweed, still pink `tho’ blooms are gone,
delicately creeps closer to winter
using that broken window
as my portal to the world, waiting
to enter the untamed savagery
through the hissing rain and swirling leaves
a ghostly face is visible in the torrents -
a beautiful face not there in reality…
only existing in the depths of my heart,
my mind, and painted upon my soul –
the perfect face of my soul mate
as i sit at that broken window,
waiting for you to come join me
as i am playing in the rain
Biting Back The Words
i sit here, listening to your voice,
and there’s so much i want to say –
some many words spring to mind
of what you mean to me –
but no, my head cries out –
don’t be a fool… don’t say those
words, don’t change a thing…
remember our golden rule
for every time you’ve said those words,
another piece you did lose…
for every chance you took on life,
another day did your soul die…
so i sit here, listening to your voice,
and there’s so much more i want to say –
so many words my soul would will;
ones my head would silence permanently
remember, my senses say,
of the ones you’ve spoken up to –
remember how they used those words
to break you into someone you never knew
remember, the brain shouts aloud,
remember all the strife –
remember all the fights and meaningless…
remember that part of your life?
so i sit here, listening to your voice,
and there’s so much more i want to say…
emotions i feel down to my depths -
ones mere words could never dignify
i sit here, listening to your voice,
pondering all the things i'd love to say –
and my soul cries out, “if you don’t,
you’ll never know if he’s just listening, too.”
and there’s so much i want to say –
some many words spring to mind
of what you mean to me –
but no, my head cries out –
don’t be a fool… don’t say those
words, don’t change a thing…
remember our golden rule
for every time you’ve said those words,
another piece you did lose…
for every chance you took on life,
another day did your soul die…
so i sit here, listening to your voice,
and there’s so much more i want to say –
so many words my soul would will;
ones my head would silence permanently
remember, my senses say,
of the ones you’ve spoken up to –
remember how they used those words
to break you into someone you never knew
remember, the brain shouts aloud,
remember all the strife –
remember all the fights and meaningless…
remember that part of your life?
so i sit here, listening to your voice,
and there’s so much more i want to say…
emotions i feel down to my depths -
ones mere words could never dignify
i sit here, listening to your voice,
pondering all the things i'd love to say –
and my soul cries out, “if you don’t,
you’ll never know if he’s just listening, too.”
Anxiety
your blood rushes through your veins.
you can hear your pulse pounding in your ears.
sweat pours down your face in rivers,
and you continually wring your hands.
the room starts to spin—
a hectic, dizzying sight—
and you frantically search for the door.
as your anxiety attack reaches its acme,
you wonder if you’re ever going to survive.
you can hear your pulse pounding in your ears.
sweat pours down your face in rivers,
and you continually wring your hands.
the room starts to spin—
a hectic, dizzying sight—
and you frantically search for the door.
as your anxiety attack reaches its acme,
you wonder if you’re ever going to survive.
An Answer
it was you – did you know that?
it was you who taught this long dead heart
how to open its wings and fly again…
i thought that life had no meaning
you walked through that door when
and pulled me back from madness’ brink
you showed me how to live again –
how to open up my soul –
how to work through my pain
with your wit and your style,
you healed the acidic hole
eaten through to my very core
with your cool intellect, charm,
and sly, off-hand witticisms,
you showed me how to laugh again
you burrowed your way into my mind
with your unguarded truths…
with those insightful observations
it was you, you know – you who came
into my life on that dark, lonely night…
you who held my hand and brought me through
and now – now that you’ve walked
through that door and healed my soul –
i pray to whatever deity is in the sky…
that you never leave.
it was you who taught this long dead heart
how to open its wings and fly again…
i thought that life had no meaning
you walked through that door when
and pulled me back from madness’ brink
you showed me how to live again –
how to open up my soul –
how to work through my pain
with your wit and your style,
you healed the acidic hole
eaten through to my very core
with your cool intellect, charm,
and sly, off-hand witticisms,
you showed me how to laugh again
you burrowed your way into my mind
with your unguarded truths…
with those insightful observations
it was you, you know – you who came
into my life on that dark, lonely night…
you who held my hand and brought me through
and now – now that you’ve walked
through that door and healed my soul –
i pray to whatever deity is in the sky…
that you never leave.
Alone
alone
physically alone in this world –
frightened as to what tomorrow
may bring for an already
battered and bruise psyche.
alone
moving throughout my day,
from one place to the next –
numb, confused, aware but only just
of the comings and goings around me.
but wait!
what's this?
not alone
your voice is like watered silk
pouring over me, through me.
even though you aren’t there,
i can feel you near.
not alone
your hand clasps mine protectively,
never moving while i deal with
the difficulties, the heartache –
a warmth that guides me on.
so how can that be?
alone, but not alone?
‘though separated by the miles
of rolling highway – each longer
than the one before with its own
story or legend to brag about –
you’re with me
‘though only able to say good night
on a telephone or computer –
cold plastic only warmed by the touch
of electricity or my own hand –
you’re with me
when the nights are long
and my imagination is playing tricks –
making me see shadows as viscous
as half-set strawberry gelatin –
you’re with me
so now the daunting task of
conquering those miles of highway
lies ahead of us – looming large
on a fiery sunset horizon –
unfolding the rest of our tale.
physically alone in this world –
frightened as to what tomorrow
may bring for an already
battered and bruise psyche.
alone
moving throughout my day,
from one place to the next –
numb, confused, aware but only just
of the comings and goings around me.
but wait!
what's this?
not alone
your voice is like watered silk
pouring over me, through me.
even though you aren’t there,
i can feel you near.
not alone
your hand clasps mine protectively,
never moving while i deal with
the difficulties, the heartache –
a warmth that guides me on.
so how can that be?
alone, but not alone?
‘though separated by the miles
of rolling highway – each longer
than the one before with its own
story or legend to brag about –
you’re with me
‘though only able to say good night
on a telephone or computer –
cold plastic only warmed by the touch
of electricity or my own hand –
you’re with me
when the nights are long
and my imagination is playing tricks –
making me see shadows as viscous
as half-set strawberry gelatin –
you’re with me
so now the daunting task of
conquering those miles of highway
lies ahead of us – looming large
on a fiery sunset horizon –
unfolding the rest of our tale.
The Soundtrack of Your Life... Part 1
Music is an integral part of my life... of my work... of my soul and passion. Without music, I would not be able to get through even the simplest tasks of the day - and that includes my writing. In fact, odd as it may seem, I am often times struck with fabulous inspiration by listening to a slow, sappy love song. Inspiration for what? Why, for murder, of course.
Music is such a part of me that I took the time to think about what, if any songs, would be listed on the (2 disc) soundtrack to my life. This is the first half of that list:
Track 1: Barry Manilow's Can't Smile Without You
Reason Why: Okay, I admit it - I am a Fanilow. Yes, his songs are often best termed bubble gum pop, but there is no denying that Barry Manilow has changed the face of music - both contemporary and in the world of television jingles - forever more. Not only that, but who doesn't know some of the words to at least ONE Barry Manilow hit (~~At the Copa... Copacabana~~)? Can't Smile Without You is one of the very first 45s I ever owned - and it was at the tender age of 5, I do believe. The melody of the song and the simple emotion expressed by this song always can make me smile.
Track 2: Tim McGraw's Live Like You Were Dying
Reason Why: The title of the song says it all, Live Like You Were Dying. There is far too much time we spend doing things that, in the grand scheme of it all, do not matter one bit. Who, years from now, is going to remember that you worked all those unnecessary hours on projects no one cares about? The only thing that will be remembered is your absence from the lives of those you love. Instead, you should embrace today for what it is - one more day to live life to its fullest - and spend the hours as if they were your last on this earth.
Track 3: Alan Parsons Project's Oh Life (There Must Be More)
Reason Why: So why would such a sad song about a woman wondering out into the water to drown herself, make the list of tracks on the soundtrack of my life? It's there simply as a reminder - a reminder of those nights spent, drowning in my own sorrow and thinking that this was the end of something. Oh Life (There Must Be More) is one of those songs that expresses the sheer hell of a terminal case of loneliness and neglect better than any other song out there. The way the music ebbs and flows with the poignancy of the lyrics emphasizes the complete despair the woman feels... and it is a great reminder that, no matter how bleak the situation, there is more to life than what you can see.
Track 4: John Mayer's 3X5
Reason Why: This song is probably the song that made me fall in love with John Mayer's music. Sure, I heard No Such Thing on the radio and loved the song itself, but 3X5 is such a great song with such true lyrics. Why spend your life looking at what you experience as if through the filtering lens of a camera? You cannot fully savor the best of what is being offered to you. You need to put aside that lens and just experience life - experience that which surrounds you and you've always been too busy to take full notice of.
Track 5: Winger's Headed For A Heart Break
Reason Why: This song is here as a reminder of things that were fantastic but were never meant to be. It is now and forever a memory of early teenage years and a first love... of summers spent in the sun and nights spent on the phone, experiencing what it was like to truly get to know someone beyond the surface of their facade.
Track 6: B.J. Thomas's Rock And Roll Lullaby
Reason Why: Ah, the pure joy and innocence of the young! This song is not on my list because of the song itself (although it does seem to be the one and only BJ Thomas song I can stomach for more than 45 seconds). This song is a reminder of times when people were not so guarded - were not so afraid to express their emotions freely and without reserve. This song has assumed its place in the soundtrack of my life for one reason - I can remember my dad holding me when I was a toddler, dancing, and singing to this song. It still brings a tear to my eye because of that reason.
Track 7: The Beatles' With A Little Help From My Friends
Reason Why: No one gets through life without help from your friends. That's why this song has earned a place in the soundtrack of my life.
Track 8: Sting's Brand New Day
Reason Why: The sentiment of this song is a great one - no matter how hurt you feel right now, tomorrow is a brand new day. It's a great thing to remember and to live by.
Track 9: Billy Joel's You're Only Human (Second Wind)
Reason Why: This is my favorite Billy Joel song of all time - and the lyrics say it all. ~~You're only human - you're allowed to make your share of mistakes~~ No one is perfect - and you shouldn't expect to be. Allow yourself to be human and enjoy life.
Track 10: Chris Botti's Midnight Without You
Reason Why: This song is a sentimental favorite. Beautiful music, beautiful lyrics... and a heartbreakingly true message.
Track 11: Jackson Browne & Clarence Clemmon's You're A Friend Of Mine
Reason Why: How many friends have come and go in your life that you can fondly look back and say, "Oh yeah! I can remember doing that with so-and-so... and it was a blast!!" This song is in the soundtrack of my life to remind me of all the great people I've met throughout my life - and the wonderful experience it was to know them.
Track 12: Reunion's Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me)
Reason Why: Music, music, music! It's such a major part of my life, a song about music's history from about the 60s on would need to be included in the soundtrack of my life, doncha think?
Track 13: Dan Hill's Sometimes When We Touch
Reason Why: This song may not be a pulitzer prize winning ballad, but who says our favorites need to be? This song is included because it is one of my all-time favorite love songs (and believe me, I listen to enough of them). A song about a man who wants to love the woman he is with but can't quite find it in him to love her like she wants him to, this song can rip me apart and build me back up in the same breath. Plus, one of my all time favorite lyrics is in this song... I'm just another writer, still trapped within my truth.
Track 14: Dave Koz's You Make Me Smile
Reason Why: This one just has great music and is something guaranteed to put a smile on my face whenever I listen to it. No lyrics to inspire, but the music itself is beautiful.
Track 15: Elton John's Tiny Dancer
Reason Why: My all time favorite Elton John song. A sentimental edition, I have to turn this song up loud every time it comes on.
Track 16: Queen's The Show Must Go On
Reason Why: Queen is probably my all time favorite band, if someone were to ever force me to choose one. And this song - written by Freddie Mercury near the end of his battle with AIDS - is as true now as it was when he wrote it. No matter what happens to you in life, as long as you and the people who love you still live, the show MUST go on.
Track 17: Gavin DeGraw's I Don't Want To Be
Reason Why: There are people in this life that will try to force you into one category or another. They'll try to tell you who you are, what you are, and what you should do with your life... your experience... your chances. This song is a reminder that no one has the right to tell you who you are - your only responsibility is to be yourself each and every day.
Track 18: John Mayer's Love Song For No One
Reason Why: Love Song For No One is here because it's a great reminder that no matter how alone you feel, there is someone out there. You never know who it could be, how you will meet that person, or if you already know them in some fashion - there is someone out there searching for you while you're looking for them. ~~I could have met you in the sandbox. I could have passed you on the sidewalk~~
Track 19: Les Miserables' On My Own
Reason Why: On My Own is so gorgeous, so poignant, so heartbreaking. This song about unrequited love speaks to the heart of anyone who has had feelings for someone that were not returned. No matter my mood, my outlook, and who I'm with - this song will reduce me to tears each and every time.
Track 20: Les Miserables' A Little Fall Of Rain
Reason Why: We've all lost people in our lives... people we never realized were there for us until it was too late. A Little Fall of Rain is a song about that very subject. A man realizes, as a girl is dying after taking a bullet meant for him, that she has been instrumental in his life - as a friend and as someone he trusts completely. This song is a reminder to remember those people who have been instrumental in making you the person you are today.
Track 21: Meredith Brooks' Bitch
Reason Why: The word "bitch" has so many connotations - both good and bad. This song actually deals with the how a woman termed as a "bitch" can be so many things - and to the same person. When it came out, my "big bro" told me, "I heard your theme song on the radio the other day," and it's been a personal favorite of mine since I tracked it down and heard it.
Track 22: Nik Kershaw's Wouldn't It Be Good
Reason Why: Who hasn't lamented, "Oh, wouldn't it be so much better to be richer/thinner/more successful/famous/etc?" We have all had those moments where we thought, "If I was thinner, life would be better," or "If I was famous, I would be okay." This song addresses the "grass is always greener" outlook of life - and how what you think would make you happy often wouldn't.
Track 23: Rascal Flatts' Fast Cars and Freedom
Reason Why: This is a love song - plain and simple. But it's a song about remembering what drew you to that person you love in the first place. It's got a great message (and the song ain't bad either ;D)
Track 24: Jason Mraz's Beauty In Ugly
Reason Why: There is beauty in all things around you - from the snail crawling across a path in the forest to the actor or actress you daydream about as you watch them on the big screen. It's quite often the everyday things that are the most beautiful to us without our realizing. This song is a great reminder to look for the beauty in everything around you - even in yourself.
Track 25: Supertramp's The Logical Song
Reason Why: Not every thing goes as planned - there are days that life seems like it's at its most complicated and confusing. This song is reminder that everyone has those days - that there are times we all feel like the world is spinning out of control and would like someone to explain to us what is happening.
So there it is, the first half of the soundtrack of my life. The second half should be coming some time very soon.
Music is such a part of me that I took the time to think about what, if any songs, would be listed on the (2 disc) soundtrack to my life. This is the first half of that list:
Track 1: Barry Manilow's Can't Smile Without You
Reason Why: Okay, I admit it - I am a Fanilow. Yes, his songs are often best termed bubble gum pop, but there is no denying that Barry Manilow has changed the face of music - both contemporary and in the world of television jingles - forever more. Not only that, but who doesn't know some of the words to at least ONE Barry Manilow hit (~~At the Copa... Copacabana~~)? Can't Smile Without You is one of the very first 45s I ever owned - and it was at the tender age of 5, I do believe. The melody of the song and the simple emotion expressed by this song always can make me smile.
Track 2: Tim McGraw's Live Like You Were Dying
Reason Why: The title of the song says it all, Live Like You Were Dying. There is far too much time we spend doing things that, in the grand scheme of it all, do not matter one bit. Who, years from now, is going to remember that you worked all those unnecessary hours on projects no one cares about? The only thing that will be remembered is your absence from the lives of those you love. Instead, you should embrace today for what it is - one more day to live life to its fullest - and spend the hours as if they were your last on this earth.
Track 3: Alan Parsons Project's Oh Life (There Must Be More)
Reason Why: So why would such a sad song about a woman wondering out into the water to drown herself, make the list of tracks on the soundtrack of my life? It's there simply as a reminder - a reminder of those nights spent, drowning in my own sorrow and thinking that this was the end of something. Oh Life (There Must Be More) is one of those songs that expresses the sheer hell of a terminal case of loneliness and neglect better than any other song out there. The way the music ebbs and flows with the poignancy of the lyrics emphasizes the complete despair the woman feels... and it is a great reminder that, no matter how bleak the situation, there is more to life than what you can see.
Track 4: John Mayer's 3X5
Reason Why: This song is probably the song that made me fall in love with John Mayer's music. Sure, I heard No Such Thing on the radio and loved the song itself, but 3X5 is such a great song with such true lyrics. Why spend your life looking at what you experience as if through the filtering lens of a camera? You cannot fully savor the best of what is being offered to you. You need to put aside that lens and just experience life - experience that which surrounds you and you've always been too busy to take full notice of.
Track 5: Winger's Headed For A Heart Break
Reason Why: This song is here as a reminder of things that were fantastic but were never meant to be. It is now and forever a memory of early teenage years and a first love... of summers spent in the sun and nights spent on the phone, experiencing what it was like to truly get to know someone beyond the surface of their facade.
Track 6: B.J. Thomas's Rock And Roll Lullaby
Reason Why: Ah, the pure joy and innocence of the young! This song is not on my list because of the song itself (although it does seem to be the one and only BJ Thomas song I can stomach for more than 45 seconds). This song is a reminder of times when people were not so guarded - were not so afraid to express their emotions freely and without reserve. This song has assumed its place in the soundtrack of my life for one reason - I can remember my dad holding me when I was a toddler, dancing, and singing to this song. It still brings a tear to my eye because of that reason.
Track 7: The Beatles' With A Little Help From My Friends
Reason Why: No one gets through life without help from your friends. That's why this song has earned a place in the soundtrack of my life.
Track 8: Sting's Brand New Day
Reason Why: The sentiment of this song is a great one - no matter how hurt you feel right now, tomorrow is a brand new day. It's a great thing to remember and to live by.
Track 9: Billy Joel's You're Only Human (Second Wind)
Reason Why: This is my favorite Billy Joel song of all time - and the lyrics say it all. ~~You're only human - you're allowed to make your share of mistakes~~ No one is perfect - and you shouldn't expect to be. Allow yourself to be human and enjoy life.
Track 10: Chris Botti's Midnight Without You
Reason Why: This song is a sentimental favorite. Beautiful music, beautiful lyrics... and a heartbreakingly true message.
Track 11: Jackson Browne & Clarence Clemmon's You're A Friend Of Mine
Reason Why: How many friends have come and go in your life that you can fondly look back and say, "Oh yeah! I can remember doing that with so-and-so... and it was a blast!!" This song is in the soundtrack of my life to remind me of all the great people I've met throughout my life - and the wonderful experience it was to know them.
Track 12: Reunion's Life Is A Rock (But The Radio Rolled Me)
Reason Why: Music, music, music! It's such a major part of my life, a song about music's history from about the 60s on would need to be included in the soundtrack of my life, doncha think?
Track 13: Dan Hill's Sometimes When We Touch
Reason Why: This song may not be a pulitzer prize winning ballad, but who says our favorites need to be? This song is included because it is one of my all-time favorite love songs (and believe me, I listen to enough of them). A song about a man who wants to love the woman he is with but can't quite find it in him to love her like she wants him to, this song can rip me apart and build me back up in the same breath. Plus, one of my all time favorite lyrics is in this song... I'm just another writer, still trapped within my truth.
Track 14: Dave Koz's You Make Me Smile
Reason Why: This one just has great music and is something guaranteed to put a smile on my face whenever I listen to it. No lyrics to inspire, but the music itself is beautiful.
Track 15: Elton John's Tiny Dancer
Reason Why: My all time favorite Elton John song. A sentimental edition, I have to turn this song up loud every time it comes on.
Track 16: Queen's The Show Must Go On
Reason Why: Queen is probably my all time favorite band, if someone were to ever force me to choose one. And this song - written by Freddie Mercury near the end of his battle with AIDS - is as true now as it was when he wrote it. No matter what happens to you in life, as long as you and the people who love you still live, the show MUST go on.
Track 17: Gavin DeGraw's I Don't Want To Be
Reason Why: There are people in this life that will try to force you into one category or another. They'll try to tell you who you are, what you are, and what you should do with your life... your experience... your chances. This song is a reminder that no one has the right to tell you who you are - your only responsibility is to be yourself each and every day.
Track 18: John Mayer's Love Song For No One
Reason Why: Love Song For No One is here because it's a great reminder that no matter how alone you feel, there is someone out there. You never know who it could be, how you will meet that person, or if you already know them in some fashion - there is someone out there searching for you while you're looking for them. ~~I could have met you in the sandbox. I could have passed you on the sidewalk~~
Track 19: Les Miserables' On My Own
Reason Why: On My Own is so gorgeous, so poignant, so heartbreaking. This song about unrequited love speaks to the heart of anyone who has had feelings for someone that were not returned. No matter my mood, my outlook, and who I'm with - this song will reduce me to tears each and every time.
Track 20: Les Miserables' A Little Fall Of Rain
Reason Why: We've all lost people in our lives... people we never realized were there for us until it was too late. A Little Fall of Rain is a song about that very subject. A man realizes, as a girl is dying after taking a bullet meant for him, that she has been instrumental in his life - as a friend and as someone he trusts completely. This song is a reminder to remember those people who have been instrumental in making you the person you are today.
Track 21: Meredith Brooks' Bitch
Reason Why: The word "bitch" has so many connotations - both good and bad. This song actually deals with the how a woman termed as a "bitch" can be so many things - and to the same person. When it came out, my "big bro" told me, "I heard your theme song on the radio the other day," and it's been a personal favorite of mine since I tracked it down and heard it.
Track 22: Nik Kershaw's Wouldn't It Be Good
Reason Why: Who hasn't lamented, "Oh, wouldn't it be so much better to be richer/thinner/more successful/famous/etc?" We have all had those moments where we thought, "If I was thinner, life would be better," or "If I was famous, I would be okay." This song addresses the "grass is always greener" outlook of life - and how what you think would make you happy often wouldn't.
Track 23: Rascal Flatts' Fast Cars and Freedom
Reason Why: This is a love song - plain and simple. But it's a song about remembering what drew you to that person you love in the first place. It's got a great message (and the song ain't bad either ;D)
Track 24: Jason Mraz's Beauty In Ugly
Reason Why: There is beauty in all things around you - from the snail crawling across a path in the forest to the actor or actress you daydream about as you watch them on the big screen. It's quite often the everyday things that are the most beautiful to us without our realizing. This song is a great reminder to look for the beauty in everything around you - even in yourself.
Track 25: Supertramp's The Logical Song
Reason Why: Not every thing goes as planned - there are days that life seems like it's at its most complicated and confusing. This song is reminder that everyone has those days - that there are times we all feel like the world is spinning out of control and would like someone to explain to us what is happening.
So there it is, the first half of the soundtrack of my life. The second half should be coming some time very soon.
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