The Little Things

Free Verse

You don’t need a tempest

To know which way the wind blows

A bubble in the air is enough

 

You don’t have to taste a full pot

To figure if the cream has soured

A drop of acerbity is enough

 

You don’t need armageddon

To send a man to his damnation

A little, heartfelt curse is enough

 

You don’t need legions

To bring down a great empire

A single wily knave is enough

 

You don’t need a calamity

To crush and devastate a foe

A wee, wilful smile is enough

 

You don’t need an ocean

To sink a wayward ship

A lone berg in its path is enough

 

You don’t need a boulder

To shatter a house of glass

A small, well-aimed stone is enough

 

Reviews

[jacob erin-cilberto]

David beats Goliath, the Titanic goes down, George and Mary throw rocks at the old house.
and Down goes those we thought unbeatable, unsinkable, untouchable...
the panes of life...this makes me think of how the meek shall inherit the earth.
All the power, wealth and fortress can't keep demise out, and the little guy in the end will find a way.
j.

[AJNJ]

All great examples of the might of the meek. Its the proverbial beetles that finally crash a great Oak to the ground. Thank you very much sir.

[Robert Trakofler]

The power of one smile can defeat the most wretched of downcast intents! A single hand placed upon the arm of the most sinister of actions can change the course of disparity:)

[AJNJ]

I do agree sir. A smile, a touch, a small gift can change big things. I know you spread much positivity. It’s always felt around you. Thank you so much.

[Moonie]

Yes, indeed...We underestimated the power of a wee little virus, and look how puny we must look right now! I like the sentiment of always paying heed to the little ones, it's the size of the fight in the dog that matters really...
Even in poetry, it's the detailing that goes a long way. Little things in romance count the most.
Great poem!

[AJNJ]

Thank you very much for the kind and insightful review.

[.]

A write full of wisdom, Monsieur P. It's revolutionary in its quiet defiance with your examples showing how underestimating the "little things" can blow up in your face. This is the way that giants are brought to their knees, governments overthrown and bullies sent hurling into the bushes. It's the small, quiet things that one must be wary of, for inside such small packages is often the strength and power of a thousand lions. Personally, i have always laughed at the gloaters and beefed up bullies and given the quiet ones the respect they deserve. It is an approach that has held me in good stead. I enjoyed the repetition and free verse combination. It combines very well to get the poets message across. Another fine original write, dear P. :))

[AJNJ]

Thanks a lot Madame. In my school days we used to fear our seniors and we often feared the small yet stoic, silent, guy more than the big, blustering bully who was very predictable. Thanks always for supporting my words. Means much.

[Chris Shaw]

Love this poem Pestonjee. Very fond of three line stanzas, I use that structure myself at times.

Yes, the little things at times can make a huge impact. I really enjoyed reading the examples that Jacob has given.

My own example is our fabulous new national treasure, now Sir Tom. He wanted to walk 100 lengths of his garden before his 100th birthday. His intention was to raise some money for the NHS. He really caught the imagination of the UK and further afield. Thirty three million pounds he raised. Now that's how a little idea can move mountains.

Chris

[AJNJ]

Good Morning dear friend. Indeed, he made waves globally with his great intiative! I've read so much about him. Some people shine in adversity. Become a beacon for others. Your words for him are so filled with pride and joy. You have inspired me to write a sequel on this poem. With Positive little things this time. Thanks a ton and more for such a thoughtful review. I hope you have a great day.

[Chris Shaw]

So pleased if I can inspire your pen. That makes me really happy. Have a great day yourself.

[AJNJ]

My heartfelt thanks again.

[Jaffer]

Now here are thoughts worth really pondering about. Thanks for telling it like it is. Hard facts of life. Good.

[AJNJ]

Some things need to be faced and digested. Thanks very much.

[Dhara_Ditzy Kat]

This poem scared me for some reason. I never bother with little details because I feel so big most of the time 😺 But now on I’ll pay heed. Good poem Pestonjee.

[AJNJ]

Thanks Ms. Kat. Your thoughts are always awaited on all poems of mine. There is always a new angle from you hahaha. Thanks very much.

[Dhara_Ditzy Kat]

Most welcome pesty

[gram linski]

very true, Pestonjee, it is sometimes the smallest of things that bring down the mightiest of Empires, cool poem

[AJNJ]

Thank you very much for appreciating :)

[Einstein Noodle]

yes indeed ... there is hope for the little people and an underlaying warning as well ... the death of a thousand cuts is meant to be dealt with stealth and purpose ... one little nick is so easily dismissed as nothing ... kingdoms and serf can all be taken down with the little things .. ones own laws can be turned against us ... your poem has but me noodle on a wary path this morning .. thanks for sharing!
E.

[AJNJ]

We don't need the Atomic Bomb to kill a man. A teeny weeny lil virus is enough :)))))
It would never do to underestimate the power of small things yes sir! I'm in total agreement.
Thanks you kind sir E, for this very kind and encouraging review on this poem today!

[Einstein Noodle]

this is an issue that needs huge proclamation ..every day all day until we understand how much on an edge we stand .... like rivers .. and time ... erosion strips away even granite :(

[AJNJ]

Indeed sir....Happens bit by bit....its evolution and its powerful. Thanks :)

[Einstein Noodle]

i wasn't thinking so much of Nature's evolution .. but yes ... certainly a power immense ... deserving our respect ;)

[AJNJ]

Of course. :)
We have little choice in the matter too.