Absolution's Thimble

The Danaides~ by John William Waterhouse

The pool of sin is too
shallow for forgiveness.

I cannot carry the sea
in a thimble or swim
in broken clay.

Error clings to
my flesh no matter
how fast my feet
race toward absolution. 

©Susie Clevenger 2015

Poem inspired by The Daughters of Danaus 
&

Italy, Glass Pitcher 19th century
Image : Courtesy of Margaret Bednar

Comments

Sherry Blue Sky said…
I LOVE your title, and the succinct perfection of your poem.
Gail said…
You wrote diamonds in this one! I am in awe. Beautiful words and great analogy filled with truth. A+++++++++++
Vandana Sharma said…
A feeling of pain, guolt, remorse i nthis poem,,, lovely execution
Kerry O'Connor said…
Susie, I have to say how amazed i always am at your ability to compress wisdom into so few lines. This is thought-provoking writing.
humbird said…
I feel/like the vulnerability in the poem, acceptance of our human nature...
brudberg said…
Oh what a wonderful metaphor.. we need so much larger vessels to carry it all.. maybe we need the sea..
Outlawyer said…
You've expressed something that I've never really thought of, but that is very poignant and apt. Thanks, Susie.
Margaret said…
Gripping! Sorry it took me so long to finally visit this gem of a poem! I agree with Kerry - so much wisdom packed in these lines! Well done.