I Can't Save You

Jeannie

I can't save you,

but I can save myself

from drowning, from

plunging deeper and deeper

into the murky waters.

I can't save you,

but I can save myself

from falling, falling

into the darkness. 

Plunging, falling

into the depth

of sorrow, of pain.

I can't save you,

but I can save myself.

 

  • Author: Jeannie (Offline Offline)
  • Published: January 1st, 2026 16:13
  • Category: Sad
  • Views: 8
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Comments +

Comments2

  • sorenbarrett

    One must save oneself first before one can think of saving someone else. Not only must one be able to swim but swim for two. This poem speaks of saving oneself and so nicely written.

    • Jeannie

      Thank you, You are correct. I have been trying for a long time to help a loved one, who suffers from alcohol addiction, but in the process of trying to help, I have fallen into a dark place. Now I am fighting to save myself.

      • sorenbarrett

        You are welcome. Years ago when a child I took lifesaving as a swimming class and soon found that I was not a strong enough swimmer at the time to save anyone else it was enough to save myself. It took years before I grew strong enough to help another.

      • Friendship

        Nicely written, your poem includes themes of drowning, darkness, sorrow, and pain. The speaker grapples with feelings of helplessness regarding someone else's suffering while asserting their own need for self-care.

        • Jeannie

          Thank you, I have been trying to help a loved one from alcohol addiction, Now, because of the situation, I have fallen into a deep depression and am trying to fight my way back. It is a very rough road to travel.



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