Need I remind you
to hug the clock daily,
and hold minutes and seconds dearly?
Need I remind you,
that you could have gone
to eternal slumber
after last night’s conversation?
that your still being here
is not your doing?
is not by might, nor is it
by virtue of own intellect?
Need I remind you, just how much
you’re not in control?
Need I?
Pause for the black Mariah –
Dethrone your hat
when you witness her slow elegance
hug the neighborhood corner
Lower your countenance
of callousness and certainty
Set aside your foolish pride
and show her some respect
Never be self-assured, in her presence
She hates that, for she has eyes
and just as she passes by, remember
she knows the remnants
of your final day, and she knows
the way, of your last ride
She knew you, and heard your name
when you shattered her eardrums
with your first cry, rudely waking her
from across the sleeping ethers of time,
announcing your arrival
She knew from then on, she will carry you
to the afterlife, when the hour -
known to her only – has come
Need I remind you, layman?
No journey is more final, than hers
– Pause -
for the black Mariah
- Author: Garth Rakumakoe (Pseudonym) ( Offline)
- Published: February 12th, 2022 04:03
- Comment from author about the poem: Where I come from, The Black Mariah refers to the vehicle that collects the deceased, when they have passed on.
- Category: Unclassified
- Views: 52
- Users favorite of this poem: Paul Bell, Fay Slimm., L. B. Mek
Comments11
Time is so important and precious . An interesting well expressed writing ..
Thank you Yellowrose. Read much appreciated.
The black Mariah in Britain is slightly different. I recall being chased by the black Mariah, and they were always driven by the police. You never wanted to be caught by the black Mariah police.
Interesting, sir Paul. I never would've thought. Either way it is a vehicle whose visit one does not envisage. Thank you for sharing sir.
Such force in your words of reminders to "hug the clock" and further to be more aware of precious days passing. A fine write Garth and one to keep for poets like me to read over and over again.
The radiance of your words keeps the fire burning, dear Fay. I truly cherish your appreciation. Thank you so much.
Wow! You are right. Time is flying past so every moment is precious. Powerful message.
Indeed, it is, Rozina. We should be more appreciative.
Each moment we live is most precious and we must savour every one of them.
Andy
Very true, Andy. I couldn't agree more sir.
An interesting poem well written and i liked the first stanza and your word choice rhrou. Kudos!
Plz do read and comment my newest poem too.
And
Happy valentines day, poets.
Thank you fellow writer. Thank you for the compliment. I will do the same.
Sp * through
Wow. This was written so elegantly. “It’s better to lose one minute of your life than your life in one minute" Time is often neglected and we don't cherish life as much as we ought to. After the passing of my mother I learned to appreciate every aspect of life more. Bravo to you Garth! 👍💖
Thank you Rocky. Sorry to hear about your mother. I must I agree with the of life sentiment. I am happy the write found a place with you. Much appreciated.
This poem is masterfully constructed Garth, the flow is very much like the journey going through the streets.
I've always thought that the most precious commodity a human can possess, is time, not money, thus, your poem is a clear reminder for all of us; to treasure time more.
Bravo, and I hope that all is well!
Warm greetings AS. I am fortunate enough to say all is well, and in the same breath am so moved by your feedback. It is much appreciated. Life,
Light, Peace, and Blessings to you and yours!
Very well written, Garth. To be able to find enlightenment in a poem so sad, makes this a great read, penned with even greater skill. Well done, sir
Thank you, Sharon. Your kind words are much appreciated.
so well written!
Empathy and wisdom
distilled, relatable
with such poetic integrity..
Brilliant!
I am truly humbled L.B Many thanks, gifted one!🙏
To be able to comment and rate this poem, you must be registered. Register here or if you are already registered, login here.