the world extends its frozen branches to you
adorned
with the decadence
of greedy, icy-jeweled, cruel hearts
your wandering self shivers
you hold out a lonely hand
to feel something
but the frigid limbs burn
branding exposed skin with red-marked scars
you’re numb with bitten touch
you open your hungry mouth
to taste
but the frozen berries stick
you strip them off your tongue
your words come out stained with blood
you brush against this plant, trying to flee
leaves crackle
in mocking laughter
but you, instead, remember love’s warm fires
you sigh homesick desires
you gaze in troubled wonder
to see anything
but the ice reflects the winter sun
blinding your eyes in dazzling sparkle
you squint and tears fall
you inhale, longing for life’s fragrance
and smell nothing
the flowers are all hiding in buds
leaving your nostrils dripping
you sneeze the cold of rejection
you turn and journey home
steps quicken
weary traveler, you know the way
come near, sparks awaken all your senses
at home’s hearth, rekindle your soul’s flame
~
You can read the original version of Journey here.
Words and Photography ©2017 & 2019 Tanya Cliff ~ to contact me
Posted in poetry & free verse.
Ooh i like that
Thank you, Michael! I don’t do revisions very often. I am glad you liked it. 😊
I’d like warm weather once again
Me, too!!! Almost to March, Jim! 😊
Tanya, this is beautiful.
Thank you so much, Charles! I’m glad you liked the revision. 😊
You are very welcome!
Ouch! This poem has some serious bite! I enjoyed the contrast and poignancy Tanya.
Thank you so much! I hope it didn’t wound too deeply. 😂
Have a great week.
No, I’m feeling strong today and could simply enjoy your musings. 🙂
Glad to hear that! 😊
🙂
Beautiful and dangerous all at once, I can feel the chill and the longing for a warm hearth, a perfect read on a winter’s cold afternoon.
Thank you! I think you summed it up brilliantly!
This was very beautiful to read 🙂
Thank you so much! I am glad you liked it! Have a great week. 😊
Reblogged this on johncoyote and commented:
Please read the work of a talented writer.
Thank you for the share, John! Have a wonder week! 😊
You are welcome Tanya.
I did like this poem. Always a pleasure to read your work dear Tanya.
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me, John!
I enjoy your work Tanya and you are welcome Tanya.
Beautiful lines and picture! Thank you for sharing them!
Thank you for taking the time to comment! It is greatly appreciated, and I am glad you enjoyed the piece!
You are more than welcome!