When Words Fail Poem by Seamus O' Brian
When Words Fail
when words fail
a cabal of stones
obsidian edged
gather in the mesh
of wire accusations.
Shifting their weight
recklessly
in a heart already weakened
by abrasions and
ragged lacerations.
what were you thinking?
why can't you see it?
why don't you answer me?
when words fail
eyes flicker to focus
on nothing at all
somewhere between
the drop of rain
crawling down the window
and eternity.
somewhere between
the wide loneliness of error
and the narrow puncture of admission
you're right
words moved
by a reluctant tongue
pushed out between
resisting lips
unrelated to
dissimilar to
the painful shapes
called thoughts
inside
somewhere between
the cease-fire and
the healing
where words fail
'when words fail' is an emotion or situation which we all encounter, in so many situations, from trivial to serious, pleasant to awkward, with minor to profound sonsequences; 'when words fail' is part of life which teaches lessons or curses according to trivial to serious situations, sometimes answers take time, sometimes emotions experiences are played out. Words unsaid or said in kindness seem to sometimes avoid a flood of consequences.
Terrifically insightful comment, Terry. You have hit the nail on the head, extending my thoughts in a very meaningful way. Much appreciated, my friend.
Beautiful words, so thought provoking. For words do fail us. It is wonderful to see another's views on the simplicities of living.
Thank you for stopping by, and for your kind and thoughtful comment. This is truly the richest part of writing, the collaboration of thoughts and perspectives, even from the other side of the globe. Be blessed, my friend.
And thinking of my own challenging relationship right now, somewhere between what can be acknowledged and what can’t. -Glen
I love the imagery in this poem about a fight and some sort of wrongdoing between two people who love but hurt each other. If words had physical shapes, became matter, what would they be? What would they look like? mesh of wire accusations - if that were a heart, what would words like stones do to the mesh? The wide loneliness of error...that's also an interesting image and idea. And then when the speaker says, You're Right. there's an admission of error...
Your very insightful comment reflects a thoughtful reading, for which I am highly grateful, and your vivid expression of perspective is a delight in itself to contemplate. Thank you, gracious poet..
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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4/27/2024 8:29:21 PM # 1.0.0.1119
A very deep and absorbing poem, Seamus. Loved it.
Thank you, Tom! Always a privilege, my friend.