Barefoot, in two movements by Lacy D PhillipsThere were rocks underfoot
and broken gemstones
razor-sharp, cutting, brilliant
but I withstand the urge to cringe
at every faltering footfall.
I run, sprinting,
tearing calloused skin
like tissue gift wrapping as I go.
But it is no matter, no care to me
who has a destination made real by the pain.
There are pebbles beneath
and sand that shimmers
silvery, acerbic, luminous
but I deny the impulse to wince
at each wavering pace.
I rush, hurriedly,
wounding healthy flesh
as easily as moth wings shred as I hasten on.
But this is no dire issue, no worry to myself
who has a purpose born of the ache.
02/21/2003 Author's Note: Written in response to criteria set as follows: Poem should be 2 stanzas, no more than 10 lines each. First stanza using hard words and the second using soft words. Good luck and have fun!
Posted on 02/25/2003 Copyright © 2025 Lacy D Phillips
Member Comments on this Poem |
Posted by Lori Johnson on 02/25/03 at 05:22 AM Well done, Lacy. You have succeeded with this challenge, I believe. Catchy title to boot. |
Posted by Chris Sorrenti on 02/26/03 at 02:00 AM Evocative response to the criteria. I'd say you were very successful! |
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