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Stillborn

no whimper, no breath
untethered soul, hushed and still
in my arms, silence

About This Poem

Last Few Words: In 1980, after a full-term pregnancy, I had a stillbirth. This poem has lingered on my fingertips ever since, and I've never shown it to anyone before. Finally thought it was safe here and it was the time to let it fly... L

Style/Type: Structured: Eastern

Editing Stage: Editing - rough draft

About the Author

Country/Region: United States

Favorite Poets: I tend to read Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Billy Collins, Paul Simon, Robert Frost. I like minimalist poetry, and poems reflecting on nature and Mother Earth.

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Comments

RoseBlack

RoseBlack

1 year 11 months ago

Beautiful

And heart breaking in the same breath. A very emotive and courageous write. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us.

Lavender

Lavender

1 year 11 months ago

Hello, Carrie,

A significant moment...
Thank you so much for your tender thoughts!
L

Lavender

Lavender

1 year 11 months ago

Hello, Ruby,

A poem that longed for a home.
Thank you, as always, my friend!
L

L

leoferaco

1 year 11 months ago

stillborn

Hi Lavender,

This was so simple yet so touching. A great reminder that poetry doesn't need to be writen longform to convey intense emotion. You've expressed so much so beautifully in a concise way. I really like this, thank you

Lavender

Lavender

1 year 11 months ago

Hi, Leo,

Not certain why, after more than 42 years, this poem came to light of day...but so be it. I'm very happy if it touched you in any way. Thank you for reading!
L

paul Bartoswicz

paul Bartoswicz

1 year 11 months ago

Thought provoking

My Wife had a miscarriage in the 80's. I wrote a Piece LOST about it. It sent her into a deep depression, and unbeknownst to me put us in a deep financial hole that took me decades to dig out of. It can be very damaging to the psyche, as it was on me as well. I still think about that event often

Lavender

Lavender

1 year 11 months ago

Hello, Paul,

I'm so sorry to hear about that. There is a special place in our hearts for children that we never had the pleasure to know better, yet somehow we know them all the same. Poetry helps. Took a long time for this poem to see light. I'm glad you wrote about your child, also. Would love to read it if you ever feel comfortable sharing. Absolutely no pressure. Again, my condolences.
L

Lavender

Lavender

1 year 11 months ago

Hello, Max,

Thank you so much for reading and sharing your thoughts.
I always appreciate your time!
L