I heard the voice — whirling in my ears
like a breeze whistling on leaves
with the bluster of November not expecting
December to overshadow it — though
in my delirium I could not find it.
The voice — alien and incoherent as it seized
my mind without a through to the impression
it left — told me to leave (bounded
in lunacy and invisible) to
the irrational rabble wrapped in regret.
Was it mania — a psychic knot tied
to some forgotten tram unspooling and
unwelcome — or merely benign?
I am not delusional enough
to think I know the difference.
Phillip Knight Scott | © 2019
Written for a few prompts:
- DVerse Poetics Pub Tears in rain – using our senses
- Wolff Poetry word prompt challenge : “invisible”
- BrewNSpew Cafe weekly prompt : “psychic”
- V.J.’s weekly challenge #70 : “alien”
I am thrilled, delighted, terrified and other emotions to announce that my first collection of poetry — PAINT THE LIVING PLANT THE DEAD — is now available to purchase. Check it out!
Often Mumbled Musings 
Phillip, this is such an excellent poem. The imagery, the pacing, and the consistency of voice, all woven to make a solid piece.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks so much, V.J.!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Welcome!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I sometimes think that we are the last persons to know ourselves.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed
LikeLike
Fabulous ending. The structure is unsettled and unsettling – works so well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like the repetition of the “r” sound in this line: “the irrational rabble wrapped in regret.”
LikeLike
Amazing piece, Phillip! The voice, whether our sub-conscious or from another source can be unnerving. Do we dare to listen?
I love the imagery, the pace and especially the finale! Thank you so much for joining the challenge.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on BrewNSpew and commented:
Sharing Phillip’s take on the prompt –
LikeLike
As I read the poem, as surreal and disorienting as it feels, it makes perfect sense. Potent stuff, Phillip.
LikeLike
Introspection can be unnerving indeed. As an actor I released several unfamiliar faces and voices. Each of us are so much more than we perceive.
LikeLike
Sometimes the voice is wise, other times …….. Great write.
LikeLike
I’m not delusional enough to think I know the difference – great poem💕
LikeLike
A very visual imaginary insightful look at the alien minds we possess …… here’s a video for you, from the voice I hear( for fun)
LikeLike
How much credence do we give to the voices in our head, and do we dare to act on them?
LikeLike
I can’t add much more to the comments above–extraordinarily fine writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks 🙂
LikeLike
Welcome 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Is it an echo or an alien? Indeed hard to know. (K)
LikeLike
I really like the final thought. The way it suggests that, in very specific circumstances, delusion might lead to understanding (of a kind).
LikeLike
Well said, Phillip and congrats on the book! Yay!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Sherry!
LikeLike
This one drew a big sigh from me … such a gorgeous opening line that lures the reader right in!! ❤️ Congratulations on your book!! That’s great 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much 🙂
LikeLike
I am not sure that I have read your work before–really nice write—and such a wonderful close–my pleasure to read your work today!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much! I very much appreciate it.
LikeLike
You create a wonderful sense of mystery.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Rosemary 🙂
LikeLike