I’m not aiming for dazzling brilliance;
I think is better to be relevant
for a long time rather
than idolised for an instant.
I have far too much to give
to simply burn bright
then fade from existence,
only to be replaced by the next
shining beacon of cool.
What I have learnt over the years
took a long time to acquire,
so it stands to reason
if I want to impart some of this,
it will take time as well.
But don’t let me stop you
from checking out the bright lights.
Once they fade and die,
you’ll be able to see me better anyway.
Comments
Doeslittle | February 20, 2009 - 10:29
I think this is excellent. The first and last stanzas work very well indeed.
SteveM | February 20, 2009 - 14:20
I really like this, it's very memorable.
Nathan Bednarek | February 20, 2009 - 15:48
Amazing! The poem really communicates its values. I get an image of a firework when I read this. It reminds me of something my dad always says:
'Don't let your life look like a firework; making loads of noise and splashing different colours all across the sky, but fading just as fast as it travelled upwards.'
A great poem, well done.
Nathan.
luigi_pagano | February 20, 2009 - 18:06
The first and last stanzas: brilliant. The rest in between:excellent. I enjoyed the whole.
shoebox | February 20, 2009 - 20:18
Bull's eye. It's really special. Cheers
Dynamaso | February 20, 2009 - 23:39
Thanks everyone for your comments. These are much appreciated.
Nathan, my father used to say similar sorts of things. As a child and, particularly, a teenager, I would routinely ignore him. These days, I relish them.
threeleafshamrock | February 23, 2009 - 22:49
As all above. Great stuff and well worthy of the cherry. I know what you mean in your comment about fathers advise. I give my kids advice and they ignore me as I did in my time but I don't mind because I know that it sticks regardless. Nice one!
Chris
Dynamaso | February 23, 2009 - 23:42
Chris, thanks for your comments and pleased you liked the piece. I do hope your kids eventually realise you weren't trying to bore them silly with old sayings but actually trying to pass on useful advice. But such is the ways of the next generation - most only realise what we have to offer when they are ready to offer it themselves.