Words Put Away Like Wine Poem by Paul C. Maybury Jr.

Words put away like wine,
ferment not in the bottle but in the mind.
Seething soundless in the dark,
unseen bubbles leave no mark.

Until the day they are called forth,
and are poured, then swirled upon the tongue.
Sparking reminiscence or remorse,
burgundy thoughts of songs not sung.

Words put away like wine
not decanted in good time,
miss the mark of proper tongue,
vinegar thoughts of hearts not won.

Words put away like wine,
ferment not in the bottle,
but in the mind.

(Roslindale March 2005)