Next Sunday at my monthly “Poetry Dome” meeting we are required to write a ‘Villanelle’ , and below is my attempt at the ‘Format’ … which I have adapted from an old favourite poem of mine, “Everlasting Smile”, you’ll find my original poem attached below the Villanelle …
Her Everlasting Smile (a Villanelle)
I wonder, was it all worthwhile
My chest, heavy as never before
Remembering, her everlasting smile
I look back, on her unfortunate life-style
Being unable to walk and talk anymore
I wonder, was it all worthwhile
I relive, her personal exile
My throat, swollen and sore
Remembering, her everlasting smile
I hesitate, retracing every mile
My tears, splash on the floor
I wonder, was it all worthwhile
I cringe, behind my happy profile
My heart, has forgotten how to roar
Remembering, her everlasting smile
I sleep alone, awaiting the next trial
My tongue, tired, needs to say more
I wonder, was it all worthwhile
Remembering, her everlasting smile
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Everlasting Smile
My eyes, narrowly cracked.
My cheeks, slightly etched.
I rest here, retracing every mile.
Remembering, your everlasting smile.
My lips, already dry.
My tongue, trying to say goodbye.
I wonder, was it all worthwhile.
Remembering, your loneliest smile.
My throat, lumpy and sore.
My chest, heavy as never before.
I look back, recalling your life-style.
Remembering, your younger smile.
My lungs, empty and tight.
My legs, weak and light.
I relive, your personal exile.
Remembering, your generous smile.
My head, spinning from fright.
My heart, deep and out of sight.
I sleep alone, crying like a child.
Remembering, your everlasting smile.
Ivor Steven (c) July 2022




