Open Poetry #47 |
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Monster |
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Michael
Moderator
Member Rara Avis
since 1999-08-13
Posts 7666California ![]() |
Monster ‘Always thought there was a monster hiding underneath my bed, Though the light seemed to confirm it was only in my head. But to me, I couldn’t be sure; the puzzle was missing a piece. And so I’d lie awake and squirm, for paranoia would not cease. I used to look behind me, almost everywhere I went. Though I never really saw it, I could always smell its scent. And I wondered what it could be to stalk me in sordid game, But could never seem to outwit it for purchase of a name. Then idle years of adulthood finally taught me how to cope, Like a fool finding his folly when handed a piece of rope. Through life’s path I thought that I could just pretend it was not there, Or hide from it in melancholy realms of self-induced despair. But today it finally struck me, like a perfectly aimed brick. In the mirror all that I see is a sight that makes me sick. All these years of running from something I could not speak; Bedeviled by it’s cunning, with never so much as a peak… Now, before me in the spotlight with not a hint of disguise, I’m face to face with the monster – a pitiless stare in his eyes. I can turn but I cannot hide, the vision’s stuck inside my head… For now I know the monster sleeps ‘the top side of my bed. ***** I just want to apologize to those I’ve hurt along the way; For all my actions, or inactions – things I did or did not say… For the agonies I’ve cased you, hearts left with no way of mending. I only pray God’s grace may lead you to a much happier ending. Michael Anderson Like one that on a lonesome road Doth walk in fear and dread, And having once turned round walks on, And turns no more his head... Coolridge |
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© Copyright 2011 Michael Anderson - All Rights Reserved | |||
ebonygirl Member Elite
since 2011-07-14
Posts 2000California U.S.A |
Dear Michael, Your poem resonates with me. I too have been the monster you describe. Finally meeting myself allowed me to take off the mask. In much appreciation for your poem, ebonygirl |
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Paul Wilson![]() ![]()
since 2002-07-07
Posts 4711United States |
Michael...All I can say is i'm speachless. The flow, the little hints you give the reader into your soul, only to leave them wanting more. You are a true master of the spoken word...Paul ~~To share my poems with you is to share my heart with you~~ |
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JerryPat2 Member Laureate
since 2011-02-06
Posts 16975South Louisiana |
I've done my share of groveling as you did in your last verse, or actually it was an afterthought I think. We don';t like to think back and see the faces and staring eyes of those we have wronged throughout the years, but it is ours to see and no one else's. Good write. ~ Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get. ~ |
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Michael
Moderator
Member Rara Avis
since 1999-08-13
Posts 7666California |
ebonygirl, I think it took meeting God for me. Either way, it's good to have the mask off. ![]() Paul, Your words are a true compliment. My sincerest thanks. JP, lol, let's just call it directly related groveling. ![]() thank you all, Michael |
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Lori Grosser Rhoden Member Patricius
since 2009-10-10
Posts 10202Fair to middlin' of nowhere |
Right to the heart with this one. You have one powerful pen. Wow! Lori |
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Marilyn Member Elite
since 1999-09-26
Posts 2621Ontario, Canada |
Wow...powerful. It is hard for us to take that step and take a good look at ourselves. Loved this. |
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tuffluv66 Member
since 2011-05-13
Posts 121Iowa, U.S.A. |
Very nicely written, it is a wonderful piece. |
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Michael
Moderator
Member Rara Avis
since 1999-08-13
Posts 7666California |
Lori, I'm glad you enjoyed this one. Marilyn, Yup... it's even more astounding when we do it without intention. Ready or not... here you are! tuffluv66, Thatk you. I'm glad you enjoyed it. |
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suthern![]() ![]()
since 1999-07-29
Posts 20723Louisiana |
I slipped right into memories with the first verse. When I was little, I was convinced there was a monster under my bed and would sneak a flashlight into bed with me... only to hear a "turn that light off NOW" bellow when I'd try to pinpoint his location. *G* It was tough not knowing which side of the bed he'd crawl up. *G* Picture double bed with small girl lying smack dab in the middle, rigid with eyes bulging. LOL Then my sister started sharing my bed and I wanted the monster back... that girl's kicks would put a mule to shame. *G* But then I yanked my thoughts back to the poem and smiles disappeared... to be replaced by anguish and then admiration... the apology you close with is one of the most beautiful and sincere I've ever read. It didn't just touch my heart... it made me wish I had the courage to do likewise. *S* |
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