Sleep child

sorenbarrett

A child wrapped in peeled skin
oozing marrow from broken bones 
from the scalds of man's sin
covered in a blanket no one owns

A carcass hung in a butcher shop
Listen to the flies scream
Aging meat this season's crop 
Sleep child, sleep a dream

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Comments13

  • Cassie58

    Nightmares. So graphic is this write Soren. You reminded me why I don’t visit the butchers. It’s the hanging carcasses that send my mind wandering. Eight lines which have brutal impact.

    • sorenbarrett

      Thank you, Cassie. Yes life is brutal for some, and I chose very graphic words to emphasize the brutality that we project upon children, others, and our own selves. For many life is but a dream and for others a nightmare.

      • Cassie58

        Your response generated much thought Soren. I have read your poem several times. The impact of images on the internet to young children is one that bothers me much. Even my own response to horrors. So shocking, I can only turn away because they are just too painful to stay with.

      • Teddy.15

        Your imagery is profoundly disturbing so you have certainly achieved excellence as usual dearest sorrenbarret, the contrast between those children living surrounded by love and tranquility support roofs and all they desire to become a grown up then those who have no chances at all. Makes my heart bleed dear friend. A truly wonderful piece of writing. Both side of the coin here. 🌹

        • sorenbarrett

          Thank you so much, Teddy. I often fear that the graphic nature of some of my poems may be repulsive to some. Nevertheless, the brutality of this life urges me to speak of it and not hide it under a rug.

        • TobaniNataiella

          A few words that are very powerful, for me open up some raw nerves, but it does highlight that not every child lives in a candy store and has an even opportunity in life, Thank you Soren

          • sorenbarrett

            Thank you so much for the read and understanding comment

            • TobaniNataiella

              You are very welcome

            • 2781

              Sounds to me like it could be the ravages of war.

              • sorenbarrett

                Could be. Thanks for the comment it is appreciated

              • orchidee

                Good write SB. Ahh, another idea for KP's dinner - aging meat. I don't care how old it is. She's mutton dressed up as lamb anyway! lol.

                • sorenbarrett

                  Thanks so much Orchi I appreciate the read and sharing the menu items

                • Tristan Robert Lange

                  Wow, Soren! A dream or a nightmare! A wonderfully provocative write on the horror of child abuse, or any abuse. The ending has a real serial killer, Texas Chainsaw Massacre feel to it. Fitting for the subject…exposing the true evil of the abuser as well as the effect we all as parents and society can cast on children (fears, hate, etc), if i am interpreting the last part correctly. Regardless, a masterfully written, concise poem, that invites multiple reada! Bravo! 🌹👏

                  • sorenbarrett

                    Thank you so much for the read and for your interpretation of this poem. It is most appreciated. I knew that the graphic nature of this might offend or put some off but then some subjects need to be talked about.

                    • Tristan Robert Lange

                      They do…and I don’t shy away from horror…good horror has many morals/lessons to teach. This poem educates and sparks important discussion. The hallmark of great poetry in my book, no matter the subject. You are most welcome, friend!

                    • Neville



                      Life can be so unnecessarily brutal can't it .. and the reason there's so much of it around is because there are far too many brutes ..

                      • sorenbarrett

                        So true Neville, so many brutes because there are so many people. The percentages may not increase but the numbers do. Also like crowed rats we lash out.Thanks for the read and compassionate comment it is most appreciated.

                      • arqios

                        Quite gruesome there and to the point. Had to double back and re-approach to allay the onset of PTSD. So quite effectively put together there! Breathing is back again too. You’re slugging with the good stuff this writing season.

                        • sorenbarrett

                          Made it graphic so people would pay attention. I've worked with many cases of child abuse and feel it is an important message to be sent not just about children but about those that abuse themselves and any other.

                          • arqios

                            As a survivor, you have my utmost gratitude and support. It is a needful thing you are doing. Had to deal with the ‘shakes’ but my mind tells me it is now in the past. Again, thank you so much.

                          • Tony36

                            Excellent write

                            • sorenbarrett

                              Thank you so much Tony I appreciate it

                              • Tony36

                                You're welcome

                              • Jerry Reynolds

                                Haunting write, Soren.

                                • sorenbarrett

                                  Thank you so much for the read and comment

                                • Dan Williams

                                  A little bitter, unsure of resolve, maybe none to be had. Truth here though.

                                  • sorenbarrett

                                    Thank you Dan for the review. Yes I left it open because the issue itself lacks resolution. Abuse of any type is unacceptable and violence is not the answer.

                                  • Goldfinch60

                                    What many do to children nowadays is appalling soren, children should always be protected.

                                    Andy

                                    • sorenbarrett

                                      Agreed Thank you for your read and comment Andy.

                                    • NinjaGirl

                                      Some lives only dreaming is the only escape...

                                      • sorenbarrett

                                        Sadly true. Thank you so much for the read and comment it is deeply appreciated and most important to me

                                        • NinjaGirl

                                          Of course



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