La doleur exquise

“La doleur exquise” — (French): The heart-wrenching pain of wanting someone you can’t have.

I try not to resent you 

for having to create a void

that can never be filled, 

forever a black canvas like 

the endless universe; 

Albeit the freckles of 

the vibrant stars and constellations, 

a mourning tranquility spreads. 

You and I stand 

at the opposite ends of infinity.

And slowly, I yearn for you; 

These feelings grow like the

steady expansion of the universe, 

exploding like a supernova. 

My heart reaches space and time 

And though you are nowhere there 

I send another wish bursting, 

swirling into the silver patterns of stars. 

This sweltering feeling, 

burning like the hottest star, 

will pull me towards nothing 

for eternity.

Reviews

[kitty blur]

Let me start by saying: wow.

You perfectly captured the meaning behind the title of this poem. I really enjoyed the language you used throughout this piece. By referencing the universe and all of its components to describe your feelings toward this person, you gave your poem an interesting take on what could have been just another cliche about unrequited love. Honestly, this is a time where I can seriously use the word 'bravo'.

My favorite lines have to be "freckles of the vibrant stars and constellations" and "you and I stand at opposite ends of infinity". I conjured up some really nice visuals for those lines, along with many of the others. I resonated with the last one specifically because I feel that way about a certain person in my life. Crazy how universal these feelings are. Stunning how easily you put them into words.

Can't wait to read more from you. :)

[Papaya]

This is a very stunning poem. The longing is almost painful and such a relatable feeling.
I liked this one a lot.

[Parsimony]

There is a Roman painting of a girl laying on her side, this poem reminded me of her. Some things are left better unsaid but you worded well what I would never admit in a million years.