The Creature

(note this is meant to be read out loud try to read it with the feeling each part has in your mind)

I stare at the creature

The longer I stare

the more the words of others come to mind

ugly...useless...unloved, unwanted

evil... uncaring, spiteful

a waste of time!

these opinions soon mixed with words of my own

liar, cheater, pumpkin eater! words and voices swirl in my head and i don't know which belong to me and which belong to others

I take a deep breath

and I turn away from the mirror

and I weep, and I cry

Though i have turned away those opinions don't disappear

(each line is said quieter from now on than the last till just barely a whisper)

they'll stay with me

they'll stay with me

they'll stay with me

they'll stay...

Pretty cool,Phil!Now check out Pumpkinhead by Doug Denslowe,natch,If You Dare!!!
(Lyrics Review)

Whoa, Philip! I read it just as you suggested. This gave the poem greater personal impact. Wish I could claim this poem as my own, I like it so much.

This is what I call a "performance poem." However, this one need not be "performed" in public; one can perform it if only the reader will do as you asked. Very few of my poems are "performance poems," but the ones that are must be heard and not read to get the full meaning, inflections, etc. So, I appreciate that you explained the importance of reading yours aloud.

Thank you for sharing this poem.

P.S. Do check out Doug's "Pumpkinhead"--well worth the read!

Listen to Frankie Jasmine;she's known for her great taste!