The Tangled Branch Discussion Forums

Brutality
has always been
a player 

and, yes,
she does worry
about her future— 

in another life,
she was worth it; 

it’s good enough
for now.

Hi Tim,

Another of your spare and ambiguous pieces. It's the final line that puzzles me--perhaps it is a conclusion that she tolerates brutality because of that axiom "better the devil you do know". A sad but true dilemma for many. Thoughtful poem.

I like the brevity, there's just enough information for the reader to fill in the gaps...to create their own version of the N's life. 
It's a neat and sad read, thanks for sharing.
 

I think you have done well with what you have written. Although I probably would have enjoyed it more if it was a bit longer.

indar wrote: ↑

Sat May 05, 2018 12:45 pm

Hi Tim,

Another of your spare and ambiguous pieces. It's the final line that puzzles me--perhaps it is a conclusion that she tolerates brutality because of that axiom "better the devil you do know". A sad but true dilemma for many. Thoughtful poem.

Not sure "tolerate" is the right word, but many women are in abusive relationships, indar, not of their choice. Thanks.

Colm Roe wrote: ↑

Sat May 05, 2018 7:11 pm

I like the brevity, there's just enough information for the reader to fill in the gaps...to create their own version of the N's life. 
It's a neat and sad read, thanks for sharing.
 

You're welcome.
 

lshmael wrote: ↑

Sun May 06, 2018 12:58 am

I think you have done well with what you have written. Although I probably would have enjoyed it more if it was a bit longer.

I think you have done well with what you have written also, Ishmael.  I too would have enjoyed it more if it was a bit longer. Thank you.

Line breaks are stunning.
The iambic closing resonates.
A poem with a punch.

T

Tracy Mitchell wrote: ↑

Fri May 11, 2018 1:02 pm

Line breaks are stunning.
The iambic closing resonates.
A poem with a punch.

T

Thank you, Tracy.  Appreciate your words.