Debt
Where is my loaf of bread, my fish multiplied,
when the hungry ravage in desperation,
and I, caring enough to carry guilt,
for all those I cannot sustain to their expectations?
And when my meagre offerings are not enough,
they threaten cold, with steely words,
and I cannot help but cringe, this worry my cross,
and this gnawing pain my simple imperfection.
So much I have travailed, in mind and soul,
yet this physical strife my burden still,
as I have never quite resolved its ploy,
it haunts my life with irrepressible strokes.
I can but give what there is to give,
no matter what demands are made, threats perpetrated,
and yet the understanding of no blood from stone,
does elude these hungry vultures.
And still they bark like tethered dogs,
one step away, my torn limbs and bloody,
and I offer pennies for them to know my intentions,
my honour far outlasting their debt.
Do I then, rid my mind of this affront,
ignore the scratches upon my door,
or remain this beaten, imperfect being of life,
living in the beauty of a mind of creativity, restored?
My fate is true, and always I shall ensue,
for I do what I can, trying to keep all happy in their circumstance,
but sometimes the wounds run deep,
and I pray for change, this weight finally exhumed,
recognized and then re-buried.
videos on YouTube and book sales on website thoughtsforabeautifulmind.com, Amazon and digitalprintaustralia.com.au/bookstore
- Brutal Night - March 30, 2021
- Like a Breeze Recalls - March 27, 2021
- Torrents - September 5, 2020
A new dawn will arise to heal and restore. I love the openness of this poem, expressing what is felt and must be said. Very well-written, Tony.
Thanks Phyllis, glad you related and enjoyed. Cheers!
Tony, the Shylock’s will always want their pound of flesh and some more. Like that clamp you illustrate in the photo, MONEY is their world, interest as well. So when we go into any form of debt to THE MAN he will insist on 30 days before he clamps on extra tithe for their generosity. Debt is so attractive to so many, I had my share as a young man, it controlled my life in many respects. I can remember those telephone battles with collectors, some I wanted to know where they were so I could ram their telephone down their sickening vulgar mouths. I grew wiser over time, now I have credit cards, but only for convenience. My creditors never will see interest from this poet, if I can’t afford to pay off a card in 30 days, I don’t charge it. So yes, DEBT is not a good bed fellow, we need to stay clear of it, for then and only then, will be have peace of mind. Well written my friend.
Thanks Vincent, glad you enjoyed the work. Cheers!