deepundergroundpoetry.com
VERBA TEMPERARI
Words have powerful permanence
As sublime expressions of love,
the weapons of bullies, degenerates,
or supernal truths from above.
Tattooed to our hearts, permeating our souls.
Indelibly etched ne'er deleted.
Source of endless pleasure, perpetual woes.
Breed conquerors or the defeated.
One cannot choose what in memory is saved.
If wisdom measures the words we select,
no need to explain the way we behaved
We’ll say nothing we have to regret.
As sublime expressions of love,
the weapons of bullies, degenerates,
or supernal truths from above.
Tattooed to our hearts, permeating our souls.
Indelibly etched ne'er deleted.
Source of endless pleasure, perpetual woes.
Breed conquerors or the defeated.
One cannot choose what in memory is saved.
If wisdom measures the words we select,
no need to explain the way we behaved
We’ll say nothing we have to regret.
Published 5th Apr 2019
Author's Note
NaPo/GloPoWriMo poem #4. I was contemplating regrettable things I've said to others over the years. How if I still remember what was said they probably do as well. I realize the last stanzas is a tad naive/unrealistic.
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5th Apr 2019 12:03pm
Poignant poem. Reminded me something my father used to say often:
"Three things never come back to Man - the past deed, the spoken word, and the neglected opportunity".
It was kind of scary as a kid to hear these words but half a century on I appreciate them - and have found it's the last one that has most stirred me to action.
"Three things never come back to Man - the past deed, the spoken word, and the neglected opportunity".
It was kind of scary as a kid to hear these words but half a century on I appreciate them - and have found it's the last one that has most stirred me to action.
5th Apr 2019 1:37pm
What awesome advice that I needed to read. Your father is a wise man. Thank you for sharing.
5th Apr 2019 12:22pm
Naive or not, that last stanza is what I strive for. One thing I've learned about myself, though - regret tends to weigh much heavier on my heart than the actual hurt does on the other person. I guess that's a good thing...??
Such a multipurpose tool, words are. You've used them beautifully here.
Such a multipurpose tool, words are. You've used them beautifully here.
