How sad it is to see those who've given up on trying to live a "normal" life. Perhaps the root cause is something deeper than alcohol/drug addiction, but in many cases, it probably isn't. When drunk or stoned, one doesn't tend to care about life's tedious problems. With just a few words, you tell a longer story. I read several of your poems before coming to one I thought I understood. (This one) The problem of not understanding is me, of course, and not you.
Posted 4 Years Ago
4 Years Ago
i really appreciate your kind review, Sam..
Yes, what is normal anymore?
j.
"Seven-eleven" and "convenient cheer" did make me smile, despite the gloomy and guilty feel of the piece.
I couldn't imagine what it would be like to be homeless in the wintertime. Last week I took care of a recently homeless patient who had to have all of his toes amputated due to severe frostbite. It is simply heartbreaking the struggles they endure and the apathy many americans have towards them.
Posted 4 Years Ago
4 Years Ago
you are a kind hearted soul to do what you do.
thanks for that.
j.
wow that last line hit hard. i started off thinking ‘okay this is a pretty standard poem’ but that ‘cold steel blade’ of the New Year starting without the homeless man is just tragically beautiful.
this world is so harsh and we’ve become so desensitised to it, and I think you’ve captured that wonderfully. Thank you for sharing!
Indeed, there are many lonely people in the world. I would guess we are all fated to feel loneliness . . . even when surrounded by friends and family . . . and even lovers can't truly fill the gaps in our souls. The sad thing is many stop searching for meaning and give in to the world's offer of numbing solace. A poem here J that makes one ponder these things.
T
Posted 4 Years Ago
4 Years Ago
thank you for your insightful words, T.
yes, the "numbing solace" indeed.
j.
Reminding us of the many who will not be enjoying the Christmas season. A compassionate write. 'that frigid blade of steel' waiting to take him. Superb description here. Christmas, a time to show good will and compassion to those less fortunate.
Excellently told.
Chris
Posted 4 Years Ago
4 Years Ago
thank you for your kind, and understanding review, Chris.
j.
Originally from Bronx, NY, I live in Carbondale, Illinois...teach English at a community college and have been writing and publishing poetry since 1970. I am here to read for inspiration from other po.. more..