Man versus Woman

Dear Man

I am not just meat to pummel and knead;
I am flesh that wakens to a gentle touch,
A flower opening to the soft caress of morning sun,
Petals unfolding, gently, as the growing warmth draws moisture from a dewy lawn.

I am not your friend if you hear not what I say,
If you close your ears to things that do not fit with your desires.
And if I dare speak and yet still feel alone
Then, as petals fold in fading light, I shall close my beauty to all who watch in silence.

Slowly, slowly, I shall wilt and die.
The peace and trust that lies within all cherished things will shrink
Like leaves on autumn trees, as cold creeps close around us.
The flame that warms our souls will wither where love once was and touch was soft.

I am a flower whose petals bruise.
Remember that when next you come to me.

Love Woman.



Watch Criminal Justice, BBC 1, 9pm.
It's a powerful story.

Comments

Great poem. haven't quite had the guts to watch the programme.
Carah Boden said…
It's good, really good (the programme, I mean). Abuse, rape within marriage - difficult subjects, but need addressing.
The bike shed said…
It's a very good poem - a bit scarily so.

And it was national poetry day yesterday too.
Nutty Gnome said…
That's a powerful poem. I missed the original programme, but I'm planning to catch up via Iplayer this weekend.
French Fancy... said…
Did you write this? It's very good
Anonymous said…
I enjoyed reading your poem and your profile.
Carah Boden said…
Thanks everyone for reading and commenting. Yes, I did write the poem - 'scarily so'!! The words sort of came to me from a mish-mash of experience - depression, as a result of not being in control of my own life (among other factors), being a key one. The vulnerability, particularly as a woman, that that engenders with regard to relationships with others was a very real issue with me, at many levels.
"I am not your friend if you hear not what I say"

... Isn't amazing how often this happens with our 'friends' though. We must listen more, I feel.

Wonderful poem x
I'm coming to this very late, but it is a beautiful poem. You should be very proud. Thank you.
Cait O'Connor said…
And if I dare speak and yet still feel alone
Then, as petals fold in fading light, I shall close my beauty to all who watch in silence.

I love your poem, my favourite lines are those above.
I too wrote a poem after watching the series - I am not blogging it but I can email it to you if you are interested.
Marian Dean said…
Very moving poem, I have just happened on your blog... ambling around as I do.
I have watched some of the series mentioned. Sometimes hard to take, but needs addressing all the same.
Love Granny

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