Echoes of You

~Echoes of You~

Your ghost hides in corners of our wrinkled sheets

reaching out transparent hands to grasp at my foolishness.

I've never enjoyed swimming naked in guilt's sea - 

It leaves me dripping remorse.

It seems, death's formidable grip can trump a full hand 

of indifference every time.

The mundane, repetitious days of our existence

held me in perspective as one

too ambivalent to shake his disembodied shoulders. 

The scent of your demise to me seemed innocuous -

fleeting, and unable to bloom;

But, flowers - I've discovered - are fragile things 

that in a short period of time

will die from the slightest chill.

And I...unbelievably -

immersed in my neglectful, narrow corner -

unable to sympathize or relate to simple needs -

never noticed at all -

your petals -

falling one by one.

How often have men picked their flower in life only to ignore her later through the trials of marriage? Her tears like petals have fallen. Now, through her absence, he realizes too late, what he has done: Disregarded and Ignored his soul mate.

Your thoughts are always welcome.

Author's Note

Note to self: Changed the picture and a couple of words.


A quick note:

~~This is by far my most popular poem. And yet, it didn't start that way. Many young people are offended by advice or suggestions from others. They feel insulted that someone would critique their writing.

As for me, I came here not just to share my writing but to learn as well. If it wasn't for suggestions from Rick Puetter and Girl Friday (see below) I don't think the poem would have been as good. The poet Richard also helped me fine tune the poem and it is now--after all these years--(in my mind) complete.

We can always learn from other people as long as we know they have more experience and know-how than us.~~

Reviews

[Samuel Dickens]

Sad, regrettable, and beautifully written. These words really speak to me. I wish I could say more about this excellent work of yours, for it certainly deserves the highest praise.

[Cryingkate]

Wow ! and that's coming from a man I admire and highly respect.

[Relic]

Thanks very much Sam, I appreciate it.

[Lina Lotus]

...never noticed at all your petals... falling one by one. Unfortunately neglect seems to be part of human nature often recognized a bit too late. Wow this speaks volumes to me. The word selection provides great imagery.

[Relic]

Thanks so much Lina.

[Heart2Soul]

This moved me. We take so much for granted until it is gone. Tragic. Thank you for sharing.

[Amy Cowan]

It's so strong, I love the emotion conveyed!

[Relic]

Thanks Amy.

[MsJewel]

I love this even more the second time around...yes relationships are fragile, like flowers, needing tenderness and care to bloom - once wilted...never the same.
Stunning, stunning poetry

:) Julie

[Relic]

I appreciate that Julie, thank you.

[Shane Mohamed]

Well, it seems like both of us have done their ladies wrong... I admire the strong vocabulary; it shows you've got marvelous control over your pen. Some women are as fragile as flowers, and we as men tend to neglect and step them over; this is a good wake up call for all guys that read this, and a sublime praise for the females. Awesome write. Thanks for sharing.

[Relic]

Thanks for the review Shane.

[Lizardo]

A poem that got to my heart
It is enjoyable to read and also gives a lot to think about for the future
(As for myself, I'm 15, thats why)
Thank you for sharing this amazing piece of poetry
P.S:I love how you start the poem

[Relic]

Thank you LAAR.

[Lizardo]

You're welcome

[Jamestown]

You couldn't have captured the truth of some relationships, the last stanza was so good
and the imagery used with flowers was terrific, thanks for sharing, b-blessed!

[Relic]

Thanks so much Jamestown.