This Dark, My Darling, This Dementia

for my brave mother

 

I meant to say good morning

but a gray fox crossed my eyes

in a crazed gait toward nightfall

How could I sleep knowing

the day had been stolen

My eyes gritty with darkness

I walked all night to prove

it was really day

There was a banquet of delirium

and rivers of new wine spilling

into my youth

I could not make it stop

My hands were defenseless

My eyes cried out to the people

but they said I should use my lips

Each thing I saw disappeared

into moments and the moments

hid behind a large wall

I wanted the ones who loved me

but my words fell into reversals

On days like this I remember

something, I see how the world tilts

and I try to speak quickly

There is something urgent

I need to say

Don't let me fall

something important is missing

from the upper floor

I love you

something is gone

a gray fox a banquet

a large wall

　

Reviews

[Emerald Seas]

Phibby, as always your writing captures a depth of feeling that is unmatched by many. Such a plethora of imagery this poem elicits, which of course is matched by the disjointed thoughts coinciding with the situation. Thank you for sharing a part of your world, with such a graceful style all your own. Excellent, my dear friend.

[Michael G.]

This sounds so close to being "spot on." At least, I think that is how my mom feels on good, and then, on not so good days. Beautifully written with a hand of respect.

[W.k.kortas]

Guts, meet art. Art, meet guts...ah, but they have met here before.

[Ken Simm.]

It takes one who knows, who has experienced this to write this.

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

I know a few people who have family members dealing with this and i must say your words certainly capture what it seems to do to the individual.

[Donald Meikle]

Phabulous Phib It says it all from where it's at. And moments keep momentum in crystal clarity.

[Renée]

It is wonderful you are able to express yourself..and be a voice for your mother.. My mother also..went through this..brave woman your mom is.. strong brave woman you are also..

[Emily B]

your real words are always stunning

it is a pleasure to see you

[Shimmerbliss/CAF]

This is stunning! How beautifully you have depicted what your title introduces. I, too, had a mother who fought the clouds of confusion...so sad, and so difficult to watch helplessly.