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 
&
MargaretBednar’s Artistic Interpretations ~ Vases ~ Real Toads

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.
August 9, 2015 at 7:07 PM
Gail said…
You wrote diamonds in this one! I am in awe. Beautiful words and great analogy filled with truth. A+++++++++++
August 9, 2015 at 9:51 PM
Vandana Sharma said…
A feeling of pain, guolt, remorse i nthis poem,,, lovely execution
August 10, 2015 at 12:55 AM
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.
August 10, 2015 at 5:14 AM
humbird said…
I feel/like the vulnerability in the poem, acceptance of our human nature...
August 10, 2015 at 7:34 AM
brudberg said…
Oh what a wonderful metaphor.. we need so much larger vessels to carry it all.. maybe we need the sea..
August 11, 2015 at 3:00 AM
Outlawyer said…
You've expressed something that I've never really thought of, but that is very poignant and apt. Thanks, Susie.
August 13, 2015 at 5:51 AM
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.
October 24, 2015 at 1:42 PM
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