You Cannot Grieve (On Saint-John's-Eve)

You cannot grieve

On Saint-John's-Eve

While your soul 

Has taken leave

So say your prayers

While it's not there

And in all things

Take all due care

Lest it's your soul

The Devil thieves

On Saint-John's-Eve

Jim Lonsdale Poetry 2025

Author's Note

A little superstitious write

Reviews

[Neha agrawal]

This gave me chills — it reads like a timeless incantation, steeped in folklore and quiet dread. The rhythm is hauntingly steady, like footsteps echoing through an old chapel. I love how the repetition of Saint-John's-Eve bookends the poem, almost like a warning whispered twice. It’s brief, but the atmosphere lingers long after. Beautifully eerie and elegantly written.

[Desert Knave]

Thank you for such a kind review. ~Jim

[Michael Sun Bear]

What an interesting poem, short but strong and for me educational. I had to go to Wikipedia and explore the nature of Saint John’s Eve, so I learned something this morning. The poem has a chilling, medieval feel to it. Very nicely done.

[Desert Knave]

Thank you so much. I have a love of lore and the St. John's superstition just hits the right spot with me. ~Jim

[Soren]

Always loved the superstitious the magical and their darkness so fine this one quite entertaining and a fun read well written with clever word usage and rhyme

[Desert Knave]

Thank you. I love superstition and lore and love when it provides a spark to write. ~Jim