A Coda for the Living
Poem. Gratitude and inspiration. And joy.
pulling back from the wreckage
the song isn't over
yet
this isn't my requiem
no solemn fixed faces
professional mourning
the single cymbal reverse
the fade-in, more than
a reprise, a coda
the toms and the bass
rhythmically reverberate
around my ear drums
as the snare crashes in
with rides and hi-hat
keeping the time
the guitar moans
across the plane
just off-key, perfectly so
the singers they sing
but the lyrics aren't clear
the song is a new one
a new melody
with a bittersweet intro
and positive slide towards the end
in timbre and octaval shifts
they make sense of sound
sound in action — action — action...
my feet they squeak across polished surfaces
as my hand reaches out
to gather my love
in closer
to dance to our song
all fresh and anew
as we kick off our shoes
and barefoot, we follow the rhythm
skipping time through the dew
*
Thanks for reading!
Author's Notes: Quick 15 minute poem, approximately, because I wanted to share something musical and positive. Here is an excuse, when not necessary to share one of my favourite songs of all time.
About the Creator
Paul Stewart
Award-Winning Writer, Poet, Scottish-Italian, Subversive.
The Accidental Poet - Poetry Collection out now!
Streams and Scratches in My Mind coming soon!
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Comments (10)
Totally love this, Paul. Plus, I love Zeppelin
Makes me want to turn on a tune and get dancing! Such a fun poem, Paul!
I love the image of them kicking off their shoes. Carefree and happy. Just lovely.
Accidents of joy & blessing.
There's something so intimate, playful, and gleeful about the characters removing the shoes in this - Gorgeous Paul!
This is a poem that will have you looking for the music. Good job.
Great inspirational poem, Paul. It spoke to me today.
Clever and charming as ever, my liege!
This put a smile on my face. Loved it 😊
I just loved every bit of this. It was a delight for the senses :) Great 15 minute poem!!! findamn