normal, quiet day
For Poppy's Prompts Thingo 3
it was
a normal, quiet day
a normal quiet day
when nothing happened
nothing of any note
the kind of day
that would pass you by
pass you by so easily
until it happened
until that happened
*
hail did not fall
did not soak
drench the world
mould did not grow
did not signify
the importance
the importance of the day
vanilla was still
as sweet as ever
that fateful day
*
the day you passed away
*
a day marked now
in history
as one of sorrow and loss
among the normal dross
important, meaningful
and signficant
the kind that stays
indelible
ingrained
in my memory
*
the day you passed away
*
the subtlety and silence
silence of the calm
the calm before the storm
the storm
the phonecall brought
that cut through the quiet
with a shock to my heart
my heart in tatters
on that day
that normal, quiet day
*
the day you passed away
*
Thanks for reading!
Author's Notes: I've always been a little obsessed with how the day something profound happens is often not the most dramatic or significant day until it happens. So this is inspired of that.
I was also thinking of this rather amazing song that deals with loss and grief and similar themes as the poem in such a beautiful way.
Oh, this is for Poppy's Prompt Thingo 3.
Some other stuff:
About the Creator
Paul Stewart
Scottish-Italian poet/writer from Glasgow.
Overflowing in English language torture and word abuse.
"Every man has a sane spot somewhere" R.L Stevenson
The Accidental Poet - Poetry Collection is now available!
https://paulspoeticprints.etsy.com
Keep reading
More stories from Paul Stewart and writers in Poets and other communities.
Comments (10)
Somehow I missed this excellent poem for this prompt. I love the repetition: ‘ the importance the importance of the day“ etc. Also your author notes… ‘ how the day something profound happens is often not the most dramatic or significant day until it happens.’
'the day you passed away' was a real fist to the gut. I also often think about how there's not usually thunder and lightning or anything that dramatic when something major or heartbreaking happens. Not like in the movies. This was so well written but heartbreaking, and if it's personal then I hope you're okay!
So true, Paul. Makes me think of the day my mother passed away. Strange how it imbeds into our mind so deeply.
A day like any other, except for the Boston City Marathon bombing & our son's death.
That was so deep and poignant. Also, I learnt a new word from you, dross! Loved your poem! 🍩🥐
I found this very interesting, on how you wrote this. The firm fits the words. Well done
I love the pacing in this poem, almost processional, like a slow and somber march. As a result, the refrain, the day you passed away, gathers emotional power as the poem builds to its conclusion. Again, really fine writing, Paul. Poetry is in your blood.
The emotions are well-captured in this piece. Your use of repetition is effective and adds a certain punch to the poem that is quite apt for the subject. Well done!
Death -the ultimate leveller and probably in some ways, the most normal thing about life. Doesn't make its power any less though.
And then one feels sick after. I’ve not seen the prompt as yet..but found the little descriptions of the day engaging. ALSO… If this connects to the news the other day..I don’t know, but if so then I’m very sorry to hear! 😔 Woo! I know of a song you do - I feel so cultured! ;0) Have not heard that in ages. Use to be on one of my triple j cds I’d play in the car. ☺️