I'm sorry

maybe you’ve whispered I’m sorry to a scarlet sky,

 

maybe you’ve lamented prodigal sons and wandering daughters,

 

why shouldn’t I apologize to the wide, wonderful world

 

for all the things I cannot change?

 

I blame the weather when I get to this place,

 

those who are lost to us don’t need me to be more personal;

 

those who have mastered the little lessons and gone on

 

don’t mind my foolish ways.

 

just because I want to  pluck myself out of this life

 

and chisel you out of that one;

 

I would still follow that smile wherever it leads me.

 

I suppose I'll whisper another I'm sorry to the wide, wonderful world

 

just because I can.

Reviews

[Sel Whiteley]

A stunning poem, aching with the beauty and tragedy of love. I love the use of questions in poems because the poem becomes even more engaging, same with the "you". I love the framing lines with the apology at the beginning and end, making the poem come full circle.

[Kerry O'Connor]

Just because I can... There is something remarkably liberating about this poem, all the while with the self-knowledge that: I would still follow that smile wherever it leads me...

[OT]

:) I can always come here for a sense of calmness, much needed on days like this - as always such a humbling well written read - whispers of I'm sorry to the wonderful world just because you can - wonderful!

[Narnie]

Beautiful.

[em]

- just because we can - yes - let's fling some "i'm sorry"s out toward the heavens - and they'll land scattered across the land - maybe light - is the way to travel - and wishes - well - they just are, aren't they!!! -
- i'm blown away by the simplicity and sensitivity of this poem, emily - :) - your words are a comfort indeed, like serah said! -

[PianoandPage]

when i read this softly to myself i immediately imagined this as narration to the beginning of a movie. it just seemed so quiet and yet cinematic at the same time. i completely agree with c. boylan and think he gives perfect reviews. :)

every line was just so and it had a tender impact.

what is evident here and reflects your writing style in general is your natural ability to tap into an acoustic/atmospheric tone that makes the reader remember that we are all indeed human.

[Raef C. Boylan]

For me, one of your best pieces ever. Extremely poignant, fondly human - humble despite its power. We can't help being sorry, we just are.
Beautifully worded.
Thanks for sharing this poem.

[Phibby Venable]

emily, your work continues to grow in soft strong songs.
this is excellent and I love this line,
I blame the weather when I get to this place,

I have also been to that place.

[Alicante lullaby]

Emily,i'm in love with your words,they are simple,feminine.. now i know why you love Dickinson...your writings are becoming kinda spiritual and new and nothing like i have read before...lovely.