UNDAUNTED

When time is up

An aged man stumbles and falls on a gritty path

in the thick of a forest

landing on his decrepit knees, he twists to a sit up

impossible to go forth, his infirmity forbids

undaunted, and familiar with creatures of the forest

he notes that he is not alone

one kind spirit shall find him

 

In the past, he has tumbled many times

different venues

though weak, he manages to rise and

continue his journey

this fall, he muses, may be the last

frailty shrouds his rickety body

he perceives his age and physical condition confines him

 

Content with this notion, he waits patiently for

his eminent demise, accepting

grasps for nothing

vulnerability lives within

 

He scribbles some words to leave with his rucksack

this holy ground is where I leave you

now I am with my forest creatures for whom I am eternally grateful

 

 

Author's Note

Thank you for reading

Reviews

[Weeping willow]

Wonderful write, loved the flow. Was an enjoyable read ;-}

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you for a lovely review!🌷
Warmly, B

[Marie]

A wonderful allegorical write where the character in the poem literally returns to the earth from which he came. He seems resigned to his demise and is happy to be with the forest he loves so much and the little animals who live within it. We all fall and rise so many times in our lifetime, dear Betty, we go on for as long as we can, but acceptance of the inevitable comes towards the end. You have captured that acceptance so finely in his final words. You narrate the story of the old gentleman superbly, Betty. I like this poem very much, though of course, there is a touch of sadness within it also. Wonderful poem! Thank you for sharing, Betty...

[Betty Hermelee]

An awesome review Marie, Thank you, much appreciated....
Warmly, B

[Marie]

Most welcome always, Betty...

[Soren]

A literal return to nature and a metaphoric return to one's origin. A type of fable as well. Loved it.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank Dear Soren, for your analytical reviews, I''m happy you enjoyed this one...
Warmly, B

[Ken Simm.]

This is excellent use of layered metaphor. It is also literally true in my case as I have recently been supplied with two new knees and I am not allowed to kneel or fall over if I am alone. Excellent work.

[Betty Hermelee]

thank you Ken, my friend, a thoughtful review!🌷
warmly, B

[John the Baptist]

As one currently dealing with knee tendonitis, I could identify with this one. I am not in as tenuous shape as the speaker, but such a condition can remind you of your mortality.

[Betty Hermelee]

Yes, you never know what befalls you!
Warmly, B