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A Namesake Poem

by Amy Manning

common though they may be
a name is a secret thing
private
like the down between a woman’s thighs
or the emotions of a taciturn man

charged with meaning
but abused by repetition
something like reliving memories
till they grow stale

an introduction
a name and occupation or factoid
dropped like quarters
into a styrofoam cup
is a gorgeous thing
a key in its respective junk drawer
unimportant till it isn’t

a name can be a caressing touch
that coaxes the flower to open
or a knife
that cuts the petals free
leaving them to the mercy of the wind
or the pressure of an angry boot

06/14/2011

Posted on 06/15/2011
Copyright © 2024 Amy Manning

Member Comments on this Poem
Posted by Tom Goss on 06/16/11 at 04:49 PM

Well crafted, with a strong ending. Welcome aboard Amy!

Posted by Kimberly Bauer on 06/16/11 at 06:53 PM

unimportant till it isn't.. has been my very thought of life lately. well done and welcome!

Posted by E. A. Pugh on 06/22/11 at 06:30 PM

Very dynamic, I am in your Library reading and I appreciate that many of your works say much with few words. Write On!

Posted by Samiah Haque on 07/23/11 at 01:42 AM

i love how you point out how common a name is--it is the first thing one learns upon meeting someone, but it is sacred and important. i always felt a name was like a box, collecting things or a weapon or sometimes your entire you. this was a wonderful poem. strong and touching

Posted by Laura Doom on 10/11/11 at 10:44 AM

Comparisons stalked by contrasts -- your name is becoming a symbol of poetic intrigue for this attentive reader...

Posted by Richard Vince on 11/12/22 at 09:31 PM

a most deserving POTD. satisfyingly clever. :)

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