All That Glitters

A Declaration Of Independence On Valentines Day

All That Glitters

I loved a boy who would not bend

A smiling summer saint

He tossed my kisses to the wind

And spurned my long complaint

 

I loved a lad I could not have

We bent to autumn’s chill

He left me wounds without a salve

My grace could not forgive

 

I loved a singer who wandered by

He took my virtue’s pleasure

He gave me nights of storm cast song

Unsheltered from the weather

 

Then I loved you, my fire, my loss

Your shine like pirate’s gold

But you were only chaff and dross

And left me ashes cold

 

You burned my wings within your name

You thought I would dissolve

Instead I stand outside the flame

And have no need of love

 

-Zoe Richardson

Author's Note

Please keep your hands and arms inside the poem. The author is not responsible for loss of limb.

Reviews

[Fabian G. Franklin]

"Everything that glitters is not gold" Dan Seals I had forgotten that song so thank you for reminding me of it this morning. I shall now be forced to retrieve my guitar from its hidey hole and play it for myself. My music is like my poetry, primarily only something I do because I enjoy it. I'm that way with most things in life. I enjoyed reading this. Your work is always such a pleasure to read. Thank you for sharing it with us here.

[Zoe Richardson]

Thank you for your kind words. I wish I could write only for my pleasure. It is a compulsion for me, something knitted into my being. Poetry is with me always and that's not necessarily a good thing. I get accused of being unfeeling because someone's tragic experience becomes verses in my head and I miss the opportunity to express concern. Or I am accused of being "too much in my own head." Hence the reason for this poem. It's always a pleasure when you drop by! Please do so often.

[Fabian G. Franklin]

It was my pleasure and yes, I understand the compulsion. I could never "not write" I write every day because I'm a poet. Being a poet is as Robert Frost described it, "a condition". But it is a condition that also defines me. But I don't write for money although I have been paid for my writing and for public appearances. I don't write for fame or recognition from anyone. I don't really even care if I'm read with the exception of my children and grandchildren whom I hope might take an interest in the compilation of my life's musings one day. Be forgiving with yourself and write what you want. Write what you feel. And as Mark Twain advised, "Write what you know." But certainly don't do it just to fulfill some other person's agenda. That would rob all the joy out of my life for me and I would never wish that on another soul. Bless, F.

[Cyprian Van Dyke]

This poem is sad but very well-written. I like how the title tied into the penultimate verse showing the reader that this is the one with importance. The ending is sad to me. But i sense a silver lining. Wonderful write. Tyfs

[Zoe Richardson]

Part of it is sad. But the overarching meaning is one of triumph. Neither the good nor the bad defeated me. I am complete in my freedom. That's one heck of a silver lining! Thank you for your praise and for your time. You are 12 shades of wonderful!

[Coyote Poetry]

Hello dear Zoe. We always want what we shouldn't have.
"I loved a singer who wandered by
He took my virtue’s pleasure
He gave me nights of storm cast song
Unsheltered from the weather"
I liked the above lines. When I was young, I liked the people with talent for painting. They loved wanderlust and their work more than love. A wonderful poem shared dear friend.
Coyote

[Zoe Richardson]

Poets are attracted to artists and musicians, but boy do those temperaments clash! I am so glad you liked that verse. It is the one positive note in the litany of relationships. Thank you for being a regular visitor, and for all the kind words you share with me.

[Coyote Poetry]

Was my pleasure dear Zoe and you are welcome.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

I am in that state these years...standing outside the flame.
This is so perfectly written...great rhyme scheme and the imagery makes this
poem jump off the page.
and my hands and arms are inside.

j.

[Zoe Richardson]

It's a place of power, is it not? To know love holds no sway. I really enjoy reading your comments. You are so thoughtful and precise. I appreciate your kindness more than you know.

[Unspoken poet]

Love is so hard, i went through a divorce not too long ago, it is still rough
I know part of this feeling, intriguing really, enjoyed the read

[Zoe Richardson]

Thank you! And I am truly sorry you endured that experience. I spent my entire adult life with men who tried to eradicate me with conflict, but it made me a stronger person and wiser poet. Keep that in mind when loss comes calling. I am so grateful you chose to read this and leave your precious thoughts. They are much appreciated!

[Unspoken poet]

not a problem, it seems my ex and I are always arguing. Some men are nothing but trouble.

[Soren]

Intriguing and alluring as is the subject of the poem. It was well measured and well stated. An enjoyable read.

[Zoe Richardson]

I am so glad you enjoyed it and chose to say so. Love isn't always hearts and flowers but even the worst experiences teach us lessons. I lost a great deal in those relationships, but I gained something even more precious. Freedom is infinitely better than love, in my opinion. And your comments are deeply appreciated.

[John the Baptist]

Well, this does sound like a difficult run. One dud after another. If old sayings hold any water, the speaker must be extremely lucky at cards.

[Zoe Richardson]

Snort! I am, actually. Quite lucky in other aspects. However, if you go back and re-read you will see this isn't a litany of bad relationships. One was actually positive. It's a statement of overcoming and embracing freedom. I was not defeated, and love has no power over me anymore. Thank you for your perspective. It is always a pleasure to see what each individual gleans from what I write.

[KAREN]

I like this poem! Love is a hard thing, it takes work. I love the last stanza!

[Zoe Richardson]

Me too! Lol. I worked hard at love. They worked hard at destroying me. And yet... here I am. I am so thankful for my freedom. And I am thankful you gave me your thoughts and kind words!

[KAREN]

You're welcome!