If I Only Knew
For the Villanelle of Regret Challenge
I’m sorry I was not there for you
I always thought that there would be tomorrow
I would have made more time, if I only knew
* * *
I was too busy, it is true
But surely there was time that I could borrow
I’m sorry I was not there for you
* * *
Our days together were too few
I just was not ready to let go
I would have made more time, if I only knew
* * *
I saw the signs, I knew the cue
But in my own despair I did burrow
I’m sorry I was not there for you
* * *
Did you feel it coming, too?
The long arm of death’s shadow—
I would have made more time, if I only knew
* * *
You were there for me, through and through
But I was not there with my love to show
I’m sorry I was not there for you
I would have made more time, if I only knew
About the Creator
Stephanie Hoogstad
With a BA in English and MSc in Creative Writing, writing is my life. I have edited and ghost written for years with some published stories and poems of my own.
Learn more about me: thewritersscrapbin.com
Support my writing: Patreon
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
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Comments (6)
You spoke the words for me...thank you.
Wow this hits so deep.The repetition really echoes that regret and longing. It’s raw and tender. 💖
This was so poignant and emotional. Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️
🌹💖
Great poetry! Sad and relatable.❤️
The repetition has a profound effect, Stepanie! So well done!