Honesty
To hold the glass doorknob until it’s warm
in your hand, but not walk into that old
room. Or open the drawer where the mind-
altering drugs are stashed, though your body
recalls bliss. The list you must write every night
when you just want to rub your eyes. The way
you must share every note you wrote with one
other soul. To let go. To watch the ash float. Float away.
19 thoughts on "Honesty"
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This is powerful, Ellen. I like the simplicity of the title and the simplicity of the last words – a simplicity that belies the truth.
Thanks, Nancy! I’m not sure it will stay this way, but I was happy with it today.
My goodness, I love this! It’s a very original poem of letting go. I wish I’d written it.
That’s a huge compliment, Linda. Thank you! I was thinking it wasn’t “enough,” but I felt like less is more here.
Stunning!
That’s so kind!
Haunting & powerful, Ellen. Thank you for sharing it.
Thanks for reading, Karen!
Powerful, courageous, resilience!
Thanks, Pam. I’m heading over to your page right now!
“other soul. To let go. To watch the ash float. ” The sounds provide an openness that supports your title!
Thanks, Roberta! I’m grateful for “sound” advice (pun intended!) from the sound woman!
A powerful poem, Ellen. Haunting.
Thanks, Melva Sue. You have the best name, by the way!
Gorgeous. As others have said, haunting and moving.
Thanks, Bill. I’m admiring your work this month!
I really admire the economy of language here. So much suggested through the senses and body memory. I’m not entirely sure what holds these images together. Kinda wishing for more guidance/exposition from the title.
Good thought, Tom!
Haunting and gorgeous wistfulness. Absolutely great!