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You have now taken over. You are with me every minute of my life and it all seems so real— a kindness of time standing still. You are everywhere I look, always with white lilies in your hands. Once, I thought I lost you. In desperation, I searched for you in every girl who smiled and in every flower that blossomed in the spring. Years later when we met again you were mourning for the loss of your friend and lover. I reached out to touch you but you never saw me and then I thought I lost you again. But I was a fool. You will be with me, always. In the young days of springtime and in the happy days of summer in the melancholy days of autumn and in the lonely days of winter. Part of the Old Stories cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Melancholy Poems: Echoes of Loss and Sadness   The poem "Sad Echoes of My life" explores themes of loss, longing, and the enduring presence of memories. Within the series of "Melancholy Poems," this piece stands out for its poignant reflection on the profound impact of sadness. The speaker reflects on its pervasive nature, personifying it as a constant companion that intertwines with every aspect of his existence.   Throughout the poem, there is a sense of yearning for the past, particularly for a lost love or connection. The speaker's search for the presence of his past lover both in nature and in other young women underscores the depth of his emotional attachment and his difficulty in letting go. The reunion with her, only to find her mourning the loss of a new love, adds a layer of complexity to the narrator’s emotions.   Despite their desire to reconnect, there is a sense of helplessness as she remains unaware of his presence. This moment of realization leads to a poignant acknowledgement of the inevitable nature of separation and the enduring nature of memories.   Overall, within the series of Melancholy Poems, "Sad Echoes of My Life" invites the readers to contemplate the bittersweet essence of memory and how loss shapes our perceptions of the world. Through its evocative imagery and introspective tone, this poem captures the delicate balance between presence and absence in our lives.

My love for The Son of Man and Christianity as a way of life is infinite, however, I find it impossible to believe in a metaphysical world. This poem is my personal view of God, Jesus, and Mary Magdalene. Please do not continue reading if you are easily offended or intolerant of other peoples' views. This poem is largely inspired by the novel The Last Temptation of Christ by Nikos Kazantzakis. The Resurrection of the Spirit: Mary Magdalene's Journey to Redemption | A Poem About God My Lord, my life is yours. Since I was a little girl, I’ve lived for the day you’d come. When I was but thirteen, and you fifteen, both almost children, your gaze sealed my fate. You held my hand and spoke strange words I'd never heard before, words I would never hear again. Then you pressed your lips on mine! I kissed you back, a child's kiss—innocent and chaste—yet we both sensed we had crossed forbidden boundaries. You caressed my hair, our lips met once more, and in a daze, you breathed in the fragrance of my aching breasts. Consumed by fear, you fled—a trembling soul possessed—stumbling and collapsing. I wiped your brow and cleansed your mouth, yet each time you quivered like a startled dove. I wept and beseeched Him to release you, but Jehovah, a cruel and jealous God, ignored my child’s pleas. Seven sins came riding from afar across the Galilee knocking on my father's door. He cursed me, told me I was the bride of Lucifer, and commanded me to leave his house. Since then, a red light burns in my window, and countless men defile my body night and day. I lie on my soiled bed in this room of shame with my face to the wall, feigning love’s cries—a love without love. Bites and scratches mar my flesh, and my tattered scarlet gown, always open to all the colours of the world, forever reeks of the stench of shameful sex. I search for you my Lord each night in all the insatiable mouths and in all the vile hands crawling on my thighs and breasts, and even though each morning I scrape and bathe in myrrh, the smell of paid-for sex still lingers in the air. My Lord, all the nations of this earth have passed through my bed. I’m tormented, scorned, and shamed. I'm abused and always sold to the highest bidder, yet I'm still that little girl, unsullied by any man, waiting to be your beloved bride. And now, you knock on my door, and you walk in with downcast eyes blushing like a virgin. You bleat like a lamb and call me sister, you say my shame is your shame and you tell me you want to save me. But tonight, I don't want sainthood or your God. Put out the red light, fall into my bed, and save my flesh. My soul will not tarry far behind. Read all the poems inspired by The Last Temptation of Christ

I looked for you in the eyes of all the murdered migrants and in the eyes of the drowning children. I looked for you when the starving thousands were marching to the Promised Land and the angels named them malingerers and thieves. I looked for you my Lord but I never found you. A few words about the poem… The Plight of the Vulnerable and Oppressed in Society | A Poem About God   “When will I find you Lord,” a poem about God, is a poignant reflection on the search for hope and salvation amid human suffering. The poem’s speaker searches for God in the eyes of the most vulnerable and oppressed members of society, such as murdered migrants and drowning children. However, despite their desperate plight, the speaker is unable to find God in their suffering.   The poem raises important questions about the role of religion and spirituality in the face of human grief. It suggests that even the most devout believers may struggle to reconcile their faith with the harsh realities of the world. The poem may suggest that many of the citizens of the developed world have a hypocritical adherence to religion. Some may even begin to question God’s existence who so callously permits such suffering.   The poem also touches on the issue of hypocrisy among superpowers that use countries such as Syria to fight proxy wars with each other. The speaker’s search for God in the eyes of the victims of war highlights the tragic consequences of geopolitical conflicts often fuelled by the interests of powerful nations. The poem suggests that these superpowers create the deadly situations of war and at the same time look for thousands of reasons to turn away their victims from their shores.   This is a complex issue that has been the subject of much debate and analysis in recent years. According to Robert Fisk, a journalist for The Independent, the superpowers are battling to be the biggest hypocrite . He argues that the 125,000 civilian casualties of the two Chechen wars elicited far less passion in the West than the fatalities in Syria. Fisk suggests that the West’s selective outrage over human rights abuses reflects its own hypocrisy and double standards.   Similarly, the Brookings Institution has published an article on the proxy war problem in Syria, which argues that the conflict is a result of the geopolitical interests of various regional and global powers. The article suggests that the conflict is not a civil war, but rather a proxy war between various factions that are supported by different external actors. The article highlights the dangers of such proxy wars, which can escalate into full-scale conflicts and destabilize entire regions.   In conclusion, the poem “When will I find you Lord” is a powerful reflection on the search for hope and salvation during human suffering. The poem raises important questions about the role of religion and spirituality in the face of tragedy and loss. It also highlights the tragic consequences of geopolitical conflicts often fuelled by the interests of powerful nations. The poem is a reminder of the need to confront the hypocrisy of the superpowers that use countries such as Syria to fight proxy wars with each other. It is only by acknowledging our complicity in these conflicts that we can begin to work towards a more just and peaceful world.

All I have are memories— love and loss, pain and despair; the remorseless spiral into sorrow and then the slow crawling back until I learned to live again. I imagine the next time we meet. But will there ever be a next time? What if we don't recognise each other anymore or flowers are no longer in your life. What if when I look into your eyes I do not see that girl I loved once so very much. What if I am not brave to tell you how I died when we said goodbye. Will you listen to my tears? I lie perfectly still in misery. There are a thousand pictures swirling inside my head. What if, what if, what if. Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem… A Poem Laden with Longing and Loss | Melancholy Poems   What if," from the series “Melancholy Poems,” delves into the contemplation of memories, love, loss, and the uncertainty of the future. It begins with the speaker reflecting on their memories, encompassing both joy and sorrow and the recurring journey of despair and recovery. The repetition of "What if" underscores the pervasive sense of uncertainty and doubt that permeates the speaker's thoughts.   Throughout the poem, there is a poignant exploration of potential outcomes and fears regarding the future, particularly concerning the possibility of a reunion with a loved one. The uncertainty of recognition and the absence of familiar elements such as flowers in the loved one's life evoke a sense of apprehension and longing.   The speaker grapples with the fear of not seeing the person they once loved reflected in their eyes and the hesitation to express their emotions. The imagery of lying still in misery and the swirling of countless thoughts illustrate the weight of contemplation and emotional turmoil.   Overall, the poem captures the complex emotions associated with memory, love, and the unknown future, inviting readers to ponder the "what ifs" that linger in the recesses of the mind.

the mast is broken the boat is leaking and souls of little children float around on the water white knives stab the sky and the moon plunges in the sea and dies papa, papa where are you quick, pull the plug; someone pull the plug drain the lake and save the child but the old lady moves so slow too late the child has drowned who will bury this dead boy now 'who cares' sings the chorus 'what was his name anyhow?' A few words about the poem…   The Silent Tragedy: An Analysis of "Alan Kurdi," from the Anti-War Poems   "Alan Kurdi," a poem from the series "Anti-War Poems," captures the harrowing plight of refugees through a powerful and evocative narrative. The poem's title refers to the young Syrian boy whose tragic death brought international attention to the refugee crisis, embedding the work with immediate historical and emotional weight.   The opening lines, "the mast is broken / the boat is leaking," set a scene of imminent disaster. This imagery conveys the fragility and desperation of the refugees' journey, where the broken mast and leaking boat symbolize the perilous conditions faced by those fleeing conflict. This stark portrayal aligns with the themes commonly explored in anti-war poems, emphasizing the human cost of violence and displacement.   As the poem progresses, the line "and souls of little children / float around on the water" introduces a haunting visual of innocence lost to the sea. The floating souls serve as a poignant reminder of the lives cut short by circumstances beyond their control, a recurring theme in anti-war literature that critiques the devastation wrought by conflict.   The metaphor of "white knives" stabbing the sky and the moon plunging into the sea creates a vivid image of a world in turmoil. These elements personify nature itself as being in a state of chaos, mirroring the emotional and physical turbulence experienced by the refugees. The plea, "papa, papa / where are you," injects a deeply personal element into the narrative, highlighting the fear and desperation of a child separated from safety and familial support.   The urgency in "quick, pull the plug; / someone pull the plug / drain the lake / and save the child" reflects a desperate call for intervention, underscoring the poem’s critique of inaction and the slow response from those who have the power to help. The "old lady" who "moves so slow" symbolizes the lethargy and bureaucratic inefficiency that often characterize international responses to humanitarian crises.   The poem's conclusion, "too late the child has drowned / who will bury this dead boy now / 'who cares' sings the chorus / 'what was his name anyhow?'" presents a chilling depiction of societal apathy. The indifferent chorus questioning the boy's name serves as a stark contrast to the earlier cries for help, highlighting a broader commentary on how individual tragedies are often lost amidst global crises.   In the context of anti-war poems, "Alan Kurdi" stands out for its poignant portrayal of the refugee experience. The poem critiques not only the direct consequences of war but also the broader societal indifference towards the suffering it causes. By focusing on a single, heartrending story, it effectively underscores the profound and often overlooked human cost of conflict. As part of the series "Anti-War Poems," it contributes to a vital literary tradition that seeks to illuminate and challenge the devastating impact of war on innocent lives.

Rise to the dizzy heights dream the dreams and think the thoughts that you and only you alone can think. There will be times when you'll be startled by the daring of your mind but don't ever be afraid, you were born to fly and to feel the scorching heat that burns you up inside. Rise up and touch the sun, conquer the light blue skies and I'll be looking up and telling all the world once I knew that star. A few words about the poem…   Icarus | The Aspirations of the Young | Greek Mythology Poems   "Icarus" delves into the human spirit's aspirations by employing the classical myth to explore themes of ambition, courage, and the inevitable risks of reaching for greatness. Through concise and vivid language, it conveys a message of daring to dream and embracing the potential dangers that come with such bold endeavours.   The opening lines, "Rise to the dizzy heights / dream the dreams / and think the thoughts / that you and only you / alone can think," invite the reader into a realm of individual potential and unique vision. The use of the imperative "Rise" sets a tone of encouragement, though it is tempered by the personal and reflective nature of the subsequent lines, emphasizing the solitary journey of personal aspiration.   In the second stanza, the poem acknowledges the inherent fear that accompanies great ambition: "There will be times / when you'll be startled / by the daring of your mind." This acknowledgment of fear and surprise highlights the inner conflict between aspiration and hesitation, a universal experience for those who strive for more.   The encouragement continues with "but don't ever be afraid, / you were born to fly / and to feel the scorching heat / that burns you up inside." Here, the metaphor of flight and the reference to "scorching heat" invoke the myth of Icarus directly, suggesting that the pursuit of dreams, though perilous, is a fundamental part of one's nature. The heat that "burns you up inside" symbolizes both the passion that drives one forward and the potential for self-destruction inherent in such pursuits.   The climax of the poem, "Rise up and touch the sun, / conquer the light blue skies," echoes the climax of Icarus's flight, urging the reader to reach for their highest potential despite the risks. The imagery of touching the sun and conquering the skies encapsulates the ultimate achievement of one's dreams, though the myth of Icarus serves as a cautionary backdrop.   The poem concludes on a reflective and personal note: "and I'll be looking up / and telling all the world / once I knew that star." This final sentiment shifts the perspective to the observer, who admires the dreamer and their daring pursuit. The use of "that star" as a metaphor for the dreamer adds a layer of admiration and remembrance, suggesting that the impact of one's aspirations extends beyond their own experience to inspire others. In "Icarus," part of the series “Greek Mythology Poems,” the poet combines classical myth with contemporary themes of individuality and ambition. The imagery and structure guide the reader through a journey of daring and introspection, ultimately celebrating the human spirit's relentless pursuit of greatness.

innocence surrenders to wanton lusts she has denied forever inflamed by carnal thoughts she falls into the arms of the salacious Pan and lies on his forest bed offering the god her gift to the chants of envious satyrs she trembles at the touch of his sinful tongue on her naked thighs and she screams at every thrust begging the goat for more until her greed is done sated she rises to the skies and she fills our world once more with her pristine light A few words about the poem…   Lust and Light: A Poetic Exploration in the Greek Mythology Poems   The poem offers a vivid depiction of an imagined encounter between Pan and Selene, delving deep into the realms of desire and transformation. The narrative begins with the portrayal of the moon goddess, surrendering her long-held innocence to the wild and lustful god Pan. This dramatic shift from purity to indulgence is central to the poem, illustrating the potent lure of carnal desires.   In the opening lines, the poem sets the stage for Selene’s inner conflict. Her innocence, which has resisted temptation for eternity, finally yields to overwhelming desires. This surrender is not merely an act of submission but a profound transformation, reflecting the powerful allure of the primal and untamed.   As the poem progresses, Selene's fall into Pan’s embrace is depicted with a raw and sensual intensity. The imagery of her lying on the forest bed and the envious chants of the satyrs amplify the scene’s earthy and hedonistic atmosphere. Here, the poem vividly captures the dichotomy of divinity and debauchery, highlighting the stark contrast between Selene's ethereal nature and Pan's carnal essence.   The subsequent verses intensify the sensory experience, describing Selene's physical reactions to Pan’s touch and the escalating passion between them. The poem does not shy away from explicitness, using stark and evocative language to convey the raw and unfiltered nature of their union. Selene’s screams and pleas for more, paint a picture of complete abandonment to her desires, a moment where divine restraint is utterly forsaken.   Finally, the poem concludes with Selene's transformation. After her desires are sated, she ascends back to the skies, once again illuminating the world with her pristine light. This return to purity after experiencing such profound sensuality encapsulates the cyclical nature of desire and redemption. It suggests a restoration of balance, where the intense physicality of the encounter is followed by a return to celestial tranquillity.   From the series "Greek Mythology Poems," "Pan and Selene" stands out for its unapologetic exploration of divine lust and transformation. It intertwines mythological narrative with deeply human emotions, offering a glimpse into the complexities of desire, surrender, and rebirth. Through its vivid imagery and intense language, the poem not only tells an ancient myth but also invites readers to reflect on the timeless nature of these themes.

You feed me slices of Madeira cake, I roll two cigarettes and pour us mulled wine. When the wine and the cigarettes are done, we go down to the rocks and dance to shy cicada love songs. Whirling naked round and round we cast our inhibitions to the wind until spent and sated we lie in a musty cave mourning our crushed dreams of ’67. Eagles swoop down from the mountain. They devour the brown cicadas chanting a dirge of death. Later, we crawl back into the safety of the cave and watch the shadows dancing on the walls until the gates open to a vision of our future lives— shivering and looking for a shelter. We kiss one last time, then leaping into the dark abyss, we roar 'an eagle for a moment.' Part of the   Old Stories   cycle of poems A few words about the poem…   Reflections on the Lost Dreams and Shattered Innocence of the 1960s | Melancholy Poems   "Death of a Dream," from the Melancholy Poems series, tackles the complexity of lost innocence and shattered dreams, focusing on the turbulent 1960s. It paints a poignant portrait of a generation grappling with disillusionment and the harsh realities of life through its evocative imagery and layers of symbolism.   At its core, the poem is a lament for the idealism and optimism that characterized the youth of that era. Sharing mulled wine and slices of Madeira cake symbolizes a sense of companionship and camaraderie while also representing the innocence and purity of youth. However, as the characters consume the wine and cigarettes, their mood shifts and they descend into contemplation and mourning.   The dance on the rocks, accompanied by the "shy cicada love songs," is a metaphor for the fleeting nature of youthful passion and rebellion. It is a moment of defiance against societal norms and expectations, a brief respite from the constraints of reality. Yet, even as they whirl naked under the moonlight, a sense of impending doom lurks beneath the surface.   The imagery of eagles swooping down from the mountain conveys a dual meaning. On one level, it symbolizes the natural cycle of life and death, with the eagles representing both predators and scavengers. However, the mention of "brown cicadas chanting a dirge of death" hints at a darker reality, invoking the spectre of war and violence. It is a metaphor for the bombing and murder of the Vietnamese people by the US on the orders of Dr Kissinger, a criminal who went to his grave unpunished. It serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the Vietnam War, a symbol of the shattered dreams and aspirations of an entire generation.   As the characters retreat into the safety of the cave, they are confronted with the harshness of their reality. The shadows dancing on the walls serve as a metaphor for the uncertainty of their future, the looming spectre of adulthood and responsibility. Yet, even in the face of despair, there is a sense of defiance and resilience. The final leap into the dark abyss is a symbolic gesture, an affirmation of their existence in the face of an uncertain future.   In conclusion, "Death of a Dream" is a powerful exploration of loss, disillusionment, and the enduring human spirit. Through its layered imagery and poignant symbolism, the poem speaks to the universal experience of confronting the harsh realities of life while still holding onto the flickering embers of hope and resilience.

Tormented by memories of my failed life I wait for you to come. I'm early, you are not here and suddenly I panic. I sink into my world of doubt tortured by the thought of how improbable it is that you would ever love me. I pick a daisy looking for a scrap of comfort 'She loves me, she loves me not, she loves me....' but then I hear your footsteps. You are here. The feeling of foreboding subsides and I begin to breathe again. I look down at the daisy still in my hands and pluck another petal. 'She loves you not' the daisy screams and mocks me without pity. Part of the Old Stories cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Melancholy Poems: Echoes of Unrequited Love   The poem is a poignant addition to the series of Melancholy Poems, delving into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the inner struggle of the speaker as he grapples with his feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. The title itself sets the tone for the melancholic theme that permeates throughout the verses.   The poem opens with the speaker immersed in memories of past failures, setting a sombre atmosphere from the outset. The use of the word "tormented" evokes a sense of anguish and distress, hinting at the depth of the emotional turmoil he experiences.   As the poem progresses, he waits anxiously for the arrival of the object of his affection, only to be met with disappointment as he realizes he is early and his lover is not yet present. This moment of anticipation turning into panic reflects his vulnerability and longing for validation.   The imagery of sinking into a "world of doubt" and being "tortured by the thought" conveys the intensity of the speaker's inner turmoil and self-doubt. The juxtaposition of hope and despair is further emphasized through the metaphor of picking a daisy, a classic symbol of love and innocence, yet finding no solace as each petal plucked reinforces the fear of rejection.   The arrival of the beloved momentarily alleviates the speaker's anxiety, as indicated by the calming effect of hearing their footsteps and the gradual subsiding of foreboding. However, the final stanza delivers a poignant twist as the daisy's verdict, "She loves you not," serves as a cruel reminder of the harsh reality of unreciprocated affection.   Overall, "She loves you not" captures the poignant struggle of longing for love while grappling with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty, weaving a narrative of emotional vulnerability and despair.

Our only reality— words their beauty the lovechild of minds alike. Now a new world is dawning. The mast that dared touch the sun is broken and the yellow boat is leaking. Words of hate, an avalanche of red and I hear the echo tell me ' You were never more than just a stranger’. Our final reality. The sea swallows all. No trace. All of the words are gone. Soft, tender, angry, red and blue; all at the bottom of the raging green sea. Silence rules our world again and in this world the harshest words have no shape and have no sound. Part of the   mosaics   cycle of poems A few words about the poem…   Exploring the Depths of Toxic Love   Toxic love, an intricate tapestry woven with emotions, takes centre stage in the poem "Words." This contemplative piece presents a vivid portrayal of the impact of corrosive relationships on the human experience, offering a nuanced exploration of alienation and loneliness. With its imagery and evocative language, the poem serves as a powerful lens, scrutinizing and encapsulating the intricacies of such affairs.   The verses unfold, establishing words as the exclusive reality—a poetic journey into shared thoughts. The mast touching the sun, broken, and the leaking yellow boat symbolize vulnerability in the face of toxic relationships. Words of hate cascade like an avalanche of red, leaving the narrator estranged and encapsulated in the echo's declaration, “You were never more than just a stranger.”   As the narrative progresses, it navigates towards a final reality—the sea swallowing all, erasing traces of soft, tender, angry, red, and blue words. The raging green sea becomes the burial ground for emotions, reflecting the depth of the impact of toxic love. Silence reigns again, where even the harshest words lose their shape and sound.   This contemplative exploration illustrates the fragility of communication and its consequences, subtly alluding to the power dynamics of language. The poem presents a paradigm shift, marking ambition's vulnerability to destructive language. The colours associated with emotions now lie at the bottom of the sea, evoking a poignant sense of loss and submersion. The concluding lines bring forth a paradoxical silence, emphasizing the transient nature of toxic relationships.

I've come back to you but you are angry with me. Hissing, spitting, screaming. Don't send me away again shelter me in your blackness. Please save me from the voices. I hear them all the time now The Morning Star, The Light, and The One with Perfect Beauty. White, red, black and pale horses burning flesh and broken wings fires, flames, disease and acid rain— the battle rages on. But no one seems to care anymore who dropped the bomb on the little yellow children. The fools who think they can stop the voices are now joining in. They've seen me and I cannot hide. Riding on white horses, they come galloping to the shore. Get out of my head, I cry. But no one cares. I kiss your lips—salt and brine. I am sure it's not tears but it’s too late for doubts. I walk into your embrace and the abyss—oblivion at last. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… Oblivion at Last - Navigating the Depths of Toxic Love   In the dimly lit corridors of human emotion, the poem invites readers into an intricate dance with the complexities of toxic love. The verses serve as a haunting melody, orchestrating a narrative that unfurls the tendrils of despair and the relentless struggle against the corrosive nature of a troubled affection.   The poem emerges as an exploration, delving into the abyss where love, in its most toxic form, takes root. The title itself hints at a yearning for an end, a release from the overwhelming burdens that toxic love often bears. Stepping into this poetic landscape, readers find themselves enveloped in the shadows of a narrative that mirrors the collective experiences of those who have grappled with the complexities of love gone awry.   The central theme of toxic love surfaces early in the verses, a subtle current that runs beneath the words. It is a term weighted with the echoes of pain, a corrosive force that eats away at the foundations of a once-nurtured affection. It paints a raw and authentic portrayal of emotional landscapes tainted by the toxicity of a troubled relationship. Each verse acts as a mirror reflecting despair, heartache, and the enduring struggle faced within the tumultuous waters of such love.   The phrase "toxic love" reverberates throughout the poem, casting a shadow over the narrative and leaving an indelible mark on the reader's psyche. It encapsulates the duality inherent in relationships, where the beauty of love becomes entangled with the destructive forces that threaten to consume it. In the delicate dance between darkness and light, the poem exposes the raw vulnerability of the human heart, laid bare by the complexities of love that have soured over time.   As the verses unfold, the reader becomes a silent witness to the relentless struggle depicted in the poem. The narrative becomes a vessel, carrying us through the stormy seas of despair, where the waves of toxic love crash against the shores of the soul. The exploration within each line paints vivid pictures of the challenges faced within the confines of a relationship corroded by the toxicity of unfulfilled promises and shattered dreams.   The overview provided in the poem allows readers to step back and witness the unravelling of a connection tainted by the poison of toxic love and the stark acknowledgement of the harsh realities faced when love turns from a source of solace to a wellspring of despair. The poem becomes a sanctuary for those who have navigated similar emotional landscapes. The resonance of the verses attempts to extend beyond the individual experience, offering a shared space for reflection and introspection.   In conclusion, "Oblivion at Last" is a glimpse into the depths of love gone awry, a mirror reflecting the universal struggles that echo through the corridors of the human heart. Readers are invited to confront the shadows within, to navigate the tumultuous waters of toxic love, and to find, perhaps, a glimmer of understanding in the shared journey of despair and redemption.

Dark purple, green and black these are your colours of today. But where is your light blue dress and where is the child's laughter? Together we reached for Parnassus. Admit it, you know how much alike we are. And weren't we both agitated pondering on such an unlikely friendship? You promised to show me your mind. You invited me to take a look "come in" you said. But when I did and told you of my fascination with all that lives inside your head, you built walls and boundaries. You shouted "stop, can you not see you are crossing lines here?". Now your laughter is not gentle and your voice is no longer clear. Last time you really talked to me there was so much anger in your voice. I don't recognise you anymore. Part of the mosaics cycle of poems A few words about the poem… The poignant struggles and lack of communication in toxic love.   T he poem "Who Are You?" delves into the complexities of toxic love, where emotions are as tumultuous as the dark purple, green, and black palette painted across the verses. The absence of the light blue dress and the laughter of a child within the imagery poignantly underscores the transformation of the connection into a manifestation of toxic love.   Together, the two lovers once reached for Parnassus, reflecting their shared pursuit of artistic and intellectual endeavours. The poem adeptly explores their unlikely friendship, where previous promises to reveal one’s mind, when faced with genuine fascination led to the construction of emotional walls and boundaries.   As the verses progress, a palpable shift in tone occurs. The subject's laughter loses its gentleness, and their voice becomes less clear, embodying the toxicity that now permeates the relationship. The memory of a previous conversation echoes with anger, a stark departure from the initial camaraderie.   The lamentation, "I don't recognize you anymore," encapsulates the profound sense of loss and estrangement inherent in toxic love finding resonance within the thematic fabric of the poem. It serves as a succinct encapsulation of the emotional turmoil and disintegration of familiarity, adding an additional layer of depth to the poem.