Regret
Regret takes the shape of little clouds
that move in front of the sun,
casting shadows,
giving us bearings in the landscape of time.
If we could place it on our tongues,
it would leave an aftertaste,
a bitter one that lingers.
Usually we are only able to find it with hindsight,
there where we always find certainty.
A life without it is perfect,
a life full of it is futile.
If regret could be put in a little vial,
a little pinch of it
should always be added to the broth of life.
Too little would be bland,
too much would be to spoil the broth,
and just the right amount
would be seasoned.
Copyright © Quirina Roode-Gutzmer 2012.
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This is quite lovely.
I like the shift of metaphor from little clouds to seasoning, a spice of life that has to be carefully balanced.
I'm with Dom and Gloria in their praise, and I would add that your wisdom comes through with just the right whimsical tone. I'll even do one of the other two admirers one better and fave this delightful verse. *
Very clever, Quirina. I love the opening bit about the clouds, about how the shadow of regret marks our past. True words for all of us. *
Just the right amount... perfect.
I particularly like the opening image about the little clouds. Very effective, I think.
I wonder how it would change the poem to leave a little space between the images?
I'll add to the praise. *
Let the sun shine in on life's regrets and laugh the cares away: which is easier to say than do.
Just the right amount seasons the broth. Perfect. Love this! *
This has nice balance feel. It's serious but light -- hard to achieve that. I especially like the opening.
I agree with Carol -- think about space in here. And also, for me the poem could end with the broth of life line. The rest creates more balance and description, yes, but does not feel necessary. Others may disagree. I like that image and sound: the broth of life. So for me that was a neat place to perhaps end (or maybe the things that follow may be somehow rearranged and placed elsewhere?).
I like playing with things like this. Just for fun.
Either way, I like!
*