Poem of the Day: “Contradictions” by Howard F. Stein

Songs of Eretz Poetry Review is pleased to present “Contradictions” by Howard F. Stein.  A brief biography of Dr. Stein may be found here:  http://eretzsongs.blogspot.com/2015/11/poem-of-day-hamburger-diner-by-howard-f.html.

Contradictions   

Howard F. Stein

waiting

hoping

afraid to hope

trying not to hope

unable not to hope

holding my breath

until you appear

unable to hold my breath

that long

not ready to release you

to the winds

Poet's Notes:  This poem draws from a common wellspring of love, hope, loss, grief, and difficulty of letting go with finality. I've written many of these over the years.  I will probably write more of them.  Long memory and fresh experience conspire to keep the kettle simmering.  They also make for difficult breathing.

Editor’s Note:  Love lost is a common theme for a poem, but I enjoy the unique way Stein paints the subject here.  His play on "breath" and "wind" is particularly nicely done.