The Arborist
The tree it stood, strong and true
Its branches bent like elbows do
Flowered in colors, green in hue
It’s beauty not yet seen by you
I thought by now I’d be
Somewhere new
I thought by now I’d be
Someone new
The roots have died, poisoned the tree
Its limbs hang about helplessly
The leaves are dried, for all to see
All the beauty gone from thee
The thoughts preoccupy my mind
(I never knew)
The thoughts preoccupy my mind
(but They knew)
The axe is held, my hand it grips
The beaded sweat upon the lips
The action swung, the skin it rips
The markings left, as it whips
Stuck in a cage of my
own design
Alone with you
Stuck in a cage of my own design
Alone without you
The tree once stood, strong and true
Its branches bent like elbows do
Flowered in colors, green in hue
It’s beauty no longer seen by you
I love this, Karie. I read it a few times and the mystery is intriguing. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteWow, thank you so much Amy! That means a lot coming from you. You're writing is always incredible. Thanks so much for reading :)
DeleteA truly haunting poem. 'This the season.
ReplyDeleteNicely done.
I'm glad you liked it, Frederick. Thanks for taking the time to read and comment!
DeleteIts a metaphor.
ReplyDeleteThat it is, Bruce. Thanks for reading!
DeleteSome of the best poetry I have read since coming on G+, I loved the way you linked something as seemingly strong as a huge tree to emotions, but then the verse about the roots show just how easy it is to topple the near indestructible. 10/10 from me.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tremendous compliment, Squid. I'm so glad you connected with it. I always appreciate your support and feedback! :)
DeleteI like this. It brings out emotion in the reader. Great work!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Francine. I'm not a poetry writer, so I'm so happy to see that the emotion came through. I really appreciate you taking the time to read and comment!
DeleteThis should be better turned into a song... beautiful..
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Nikkah. I'm glad you enjoyed it. That's interesting...I didn't think of it as a song, but rereading I can definitely see where you're coming from. You have an eye! :)
DeleteI found this poem quite haunting and love the rhythm and repetition - I agree with Nikkah, and think it has great potential as lyrics to the right music - do know any singer/songwriters?
ReplyDeleteThanks Teagan, I'm so happy you liked it. You and Nikkah have me thinking now....I do know some musicians. I'll see if they feel this is something they could work with. Thanks for reading :)
DeleteThis is a striking poem Karie. I feel honoured that I was one of the first to read it. Thank you so much. It has stayed with me ever since :D
ReplyDeleteYou're the best, Ben. I am so lucky to have found a true kindred spirit and friend with you. You make me laugh and are always there for a quick read or a supportive word. Not to mention your amazing talents as a writer. Thank you so much for everything!
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