The Puppet's Smile

The Puppet’s Smile

 

Ever present, no matter the state,

It’s always the same.

Painted on its face of wood,

Never needing to be understood.

Always serene, though it quakes.

 

Its eyes are big and wide,

And its smile ever resides.

Having no life of its own,

Its members mobile by the one who holds…

The puppet’s smile cries.

 

Happy all the time,

Letting none see it whine.

Its sole purpose is to make others happy,

Created to simply be.

A fun and joyous sight.

 

Hung by a string

To dance and sing.

Each move dictated,

Its jive mandated.

The puppet’s smile stings.

 

Knowing not that it was made

To be on display,

Having not a clue

As what it’s to do…

It sits and waits.

 

It doesn’t know that all the while

The one pulling its strings is taking the extra mile.

For he hasn’t been happy for quite some time,

And hopes to someday find

The puppet’s smile.

 

Melinda McQueen Rodgers

May 15, 2021

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

Really like the strong metaphor here Melinda. Showing a brave face while your world is collapsing on the inside.

Chris

[Melinda McQueen]

Thanks for visiting. I appreciate you.

[KAREN]

This was a fun story to read! I love the details that made the story come to life!

[Melinda McQueen]

Thanks for visiting. I appreciate you.

[KAREN]

You're welcome!

[Pryde Foltz]

Wonderfully constructed and conceived:)

[Melinda McQueen]

Thanks for visiting. I appreciate you.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

people feel like puppets too often, used by others...told what to say and do, a very uncomfortable feeling...makes us wish we actually were made of wood, not alive.
As I was reading this I was humming the Bee Gees' song "Holiday"
"If the puppet makes you smile, if nothing you're throwing stones, throwing stones, throwing stones"
really excellent metaphor here.
j.

[Melinda McQueen]

I so enjoyed your comment... and it's true. Thanks for visiting. I appreciate you.