Playing with toys from upstairs and downstairs,
Hoping not to get into trouble,
Listening for footfall, so I can make an early escape.
*
“Do-as-you-are-told-when-you-are-told.”
Three times a week, for years and years
I don’t know the words to stop it, so I say nothing.
*
He says “Come here!”,
My heartbeat speeds
I caught his eye this time. My young self trembles.
*
I say nothing, I do nothing, I obey.
My complicated brain hides it away.
Steeped in my subconscious, the memory remains.
About the Creator
Ruth Stewart
I'm a grandmother of four amazing grandchildren and a mum of three fabulous children. I write poetry mainly, also prose and the odd story. I live in Scotland, UK. For a secret link to watch me read my favourite poems click right here!
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More stories from Ruth Stewart and writers in Poets and other communities.
The Dangling Bead
My life is splashing before my eyes, as I precariously suspend and prepare for the end, the consumption of my Self and identity. I know that gravity will be the victor in this struggle. Like a pendant, slipping from the chain, the tension has caught me in this moment, bestowing one last gift of reflection. I cling desperately, questioning my purpose. Searching for comfort. And I remember…
By Leslie Staven6 days ago in Fiction
Comments (20)
Ruth, such a powerful and emotional piece/poem. Terrific writing! 😞😊
This is so heartbreaking but so well written. I'm really sorry for what you went through
The pain in the memory really seeps through. Beautifully expressed.
The strength in creating this beautiful poem is a large presence; to put this reflection into such profound and delicate words is a huge feat. I'm so sorry for what may have led to the need for this piece to be written. I hope sharing this special piece gives you what it has given others who read it.
I can feel innocent sadness and sombre through the words. That's a great poem 👏🏽
This is beautifully written with a not so subtle hint of heartbreak. I'm sorry.
The tone of this poem was expertly expressed. I felt it. Well done!
Eloquently written but it is heartbreaking!!💕❤️
Heartbreaking. This one resonated very deep– No child should have to live like this. Ruth, hank you for writing this beautiful and heavy piece, and for sharing with all of us! 💞
"Because I said so" was a popular one in my family when I was younger. I am also sorry for what you went through; everyone deserves a childhood free from fear
A lot of hidden truth here. Thank you.
"This is not a democracy." My mother's voice every time we objected to something she wanted that made no sense to us.
Oooo I really relate to this one!! Found your poem from Paul’s Vocal Deep Cuts!! Love it !
I felt this so strongly. Such a powerful message delivered with brevity.
This was so tragic! I wish I can protect all children from this 🥺💔
There are so many underlying meanings in the words we utter. One has to listen really well to catch them all. This was so deep and many layered, A great poem.
Awww Ruth ❤️❤️ kids are so sensitive. I feel like this kind of parenting should be outlawed LOL. Jk but kinda not… beautifully written ❤️
Horrible, but wonderfully expressed.
Abuse never leaves you no matter how many years go by
Sad...heartbreaking but beautifully expressed. This is one of my favourites by you so far. Love it, even if I don't love that anyone would have to go through feeling that way! xxx