Until Then I Will

As I decay, let flesh falter under sun,
so blemished and vaguely open
to life’s failing light,
I tremble not for the passing but the leaving,
the loves left behind,
when this vessel ceases to be relevant,
admonished by time,
I will regret nothing, forgive my rhyme,
as none shall judge a soul who tried,
failed often yet with heart, never denied.
As darkness entreats a weary soul,
I let nothing go, for all is what made me,
good and bad,
and I acknowledge those who cut my flesh,
who bruised my soul, for they too made me whole,
made me face myself in truth, not gloss over the ruse
within which I often played,
and for that I am grateful,
for extending my grasp on emotions,
those notions that proved askew.
For now, I’ve much left to endure,
to procure a better way to treat myself,
a kinder way to accept the undulations of life,
and forgive myself up front for the failures,
I’m no savor, just a man on a mission,
to learn what life is, to understand what love is
and to simple be within it,
espousing the path of my soul’s desire,
until that light is snuffed out
and I move on to better pastures.
So I remain, slightly shriveled,
used and abused, but don’t yet dribble,
even though at times I question my sanity,
douse the flames of my vanity
and care not what anyone else thinks,
for the vision is mine, the truth in kind,
and I will stand beside this vessel,
for all its worth in heart and soul,
and write til hands cannot hold the quill,
but until then, I will.
Tony DeLorger © 2017
- Brutal Night - March 30, 2021
- Like a Breeze Recalls - March 27, 2021
- Torrents - September 5, 2020


A telling photo indeed, it reminds me of a tree in the Grimm tales. But to make a comparison of birth, growth, age and ultimate death is brilliant Tony. These lines so wisely penned by you reverberated with me.
“I’m no savor, just a man on a mission, to learn what life is, to understand what love is and to simple be within it, espousing the path of my soul’s desire, until that light is snuffed out “and I move on to better pastures.” Great work Tony, truly brilliant.
So precious, Tony, masterful.
I am behind have been behind scenes editing most of the last two days, so am not commenting as much as usual. I love this piece of yours, It is beautiful, dear poet.
So glad you appreciated this one, I was pleased with it; sometimes words just flow out attached to heart and soul. As always appreciated your kindness and time in reading my work. I find it difficult to keep up with everything, somewhat overwhelming at times. Take care my friend.
I know, you work hard Phyllis and we all appreciate it, believe me. So glad you enjoyed this piece. Take care my friend.
This is an exquisite writing that appears to give the reader the privilege of looking into the very depths of your inner chambers, and it is an honor that you share your vastness with us.
So pleased you appreciated the work Tamara. Take care.
I had to come see the words you put with your chosen image. They aren’t quite what I imagined, but interesting nonetheless. I especially like the very last stanza.
Thanks Shannon, glad you enjoyed the work. Cheers!