Still His Wife

There’s a strange ache that comes with filling out forms these days.
Married? Single? Widow? Divorced?
And suddenly, I find myself unsure where I belong.

Legally, yes—I am single and a widow. But in my heart, I am definitely not single and remain his wife.

He may have gone ahead to heaven, but to me, he is simply my husband.

I still wear the wedding ring he gently placed on my finger
Back then, I sometimes forgot it
But now, I can’t imagine stepping outside without it
It’s part of me—just as he is
A quiet promise I still keep, a symbol of a bond unbroken by time or distance.

I speak of him in the present, never as my “late” or “ex” anything.
He’s not in the past tense.
He’s in every breath I take, every memory I hold, every beat of this broken-but-still-loving heart.

Grief, I’ve learned, is love with nowhere to go. And some days, that love overflows in tears—just so my heart can keep on beating.

So yes, on paper I may be single.
But in truth, I am still his wife.
Forever.

About This Poem

Last Few Words: My husband passed away just 3 months back and I've started writing just to get over grief. So, I know this doesn't sound muchlike poetry. But please bear with me.

Style/Type: Free verse

Review Request Direction: How does this theme appeal to you?

Review Request Intensity: I appreciate moderate constructive criticism

Editing Stage: Not actively editing

About the Author

Country/Region: LKA

Comments

neopoet

1 week 6 days ago

Neopoet AI [2025-04]

The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet’s AI:

This poem effectively captures the complex emotional landscape of loss and identity after the death of a spouse. The tension between legal status and personal truth is clearly articulated, creating a poignant exploration of how love persists beyond conventional definitions.

The opening lines immediately ground the reader in a relatable, everyday experience—filling out forms—while swiftly moving into deeper emotional territory. This contrast between the mundane and the profound strengthens the poem’s impact. The use of questions ("Married? Single? Widow? Divorced?") invites readers to consider the limitations of labels, which is a compelling thematic choice.

The poem’s voice is intimate and consistent, with a conversational tone that enhances its accessibility. The phrase “Grief, I’ve learned, is love with nowhere to go” stands out as a powerful and original metaphor, distilling a complex emotion into a succinct and memorable line.

Imagery related to the wedding ring is effective, symbolizing continuity and presence. However, some lines could benefit from more vivid or sensory detail to deepen the emotional resonance. For example, expanding on the physical sensations or memories associated with the ring might create a stronger connection for the reader.

Structurally, the poem flows smoothly, though varying line lengths or incorporating more deliberate pauses could enhance its rhythm and emotional pacing. Consider experimenting with stanza breaks or enjambment to emphasize key moments or shifts in tone.

Overall, the poem’s strength lies in its honest and heartfelt expression of enduring love and identity beyond loss. Refining imagery and rhythm could further elevate its emotional power and memorability.

Please send feedback about Neo (our AI critique system) to neopoet.com/contact

Candlewitch

2 weeks 1 day ago

Dear Poet,

This poem says what I would be feeling, should my darling husband go forth in the next life without me. Your words rocked me to my core! I really liked your description of "Grief" it is so true!

*hugs, Cat