THE SECOND POETRY PRIZE WINNER –
WINTER 2020 – 2021
is LAUREN EMERSON
of Victoria, Texas, USA
“Conversations”
Together we dance, spinning this way and that.
We’re best friends – known each other for years.
Yet between us it sits, that one thing.
A topic of black acid in a fragile glass goblet.
One friend won’t shift; the other can’t let go.
Neither will agree, so around it we dance.
Most days, it doesn’t matter. We whirl and laugh.
But always in our minds, our tongues stay clear
Because on most days, peace is how we love.
But then it happens.
Perhaps an accident, a careless step or trip.
Perhaps on purpose, a firm sweep of the leg.
Perhaps we’re just tired of dancing around
What should be faced.
The acid spills. It burns us both.
And we each must choose.
Do we stay or go?
Can our love survive the burns and tears?
Can we continue, or do we walk away?
Healing will come.
Friends who heal together forge greater trust.
But what of the glass?
Do we replace it, or does it disappear?
All friends face it, the day their glass breaks.
When it does, what next?
Whether by one or both, the choice to break it
Leads to forgiveness or an empty ballroom.
# # #
About the poet:
I am a South Texas marketing professional who dreams of being a successful fiction writer. I also dabble in poetry when the mood strikes me. I hope you enjoy my poem. ~Lauren Emerson
