On Having Bipolar Disorder

a rough draft-- the first thoughts sketched out

When I was young, I had quixotic notions

I thought that “Manic Depression” sounded romantic-

That the emotional highs and lows

Would bring me music and poetry

How was I to know the truth?

 

I have often wondered if my illness

Is a mixed blessing from Above-

“Be careful what you wish for, you might get it.”

With all the music and poetry

And now I know the truth…

 

I have Bipolar Depression

With no excuses, nor idealistic fantasies-

My emotions are symptomatic, not real

Laced with music and poetry:

A harsh and callous truth.

Author's Note

This is the first draft: please be frank, and don't hold back!

Reviews

[bobc]

A strong piece overall but could live with fewer words. Sometimes, less is more and this one could be leaner, I think. For example, rather than 'I have Bipolar Depression', how about 'I am bipolar'. More direct and to the point to my ear...bobc

[Karen]

There is boldness and realism in this poem, self-revelation and truth, which is what the message is about, finding the truth about one's own mental illness. Writing about it is a sort of purging of those feelings, and you've done a great job at doing that. Thank you for daring to write about this taboo topic and sharing it with us!

[ba_mcfarlane]

The theme is blunt and honest, a great start for the 1st draft.