Longing

I’ve learned not to long for things

Not out loud anyway

In case it makes the pixies

Remember what a sense of humour is

And execute some swift response at my expense.

 

I’ll keep shtum, lips pressed together

Heart beating lightly and perhaps

I’ll permit me an inkling of

Something in my mind’s eye.

 

It feels fake to be needy when

I have more than many.

 

But when I’m sure the pixies are sleeping

Or elsewhere making their special brand of mischief

I might open a magazine or click on a link

I might just allow myself to think

 

Oh about what?

Shhhhh!

2 thoughts on “Longing

  1. I like how this poem turns the title and speaks not about what is longed for but about what is never spoken. Each line feeds into the idea that a voiced longing is like a birthday wish; it won’t come true if it’s spoken. Your lines also feed into the twist you’ve established. I particularly like the contrast in the image of humorous pixies, usually seen as cute and fun, executing and making mischief with the speaker’s desires..

    The only thing I would change is to take away this line: “Oh about what?” because I don’t think you need to ask this question. The last line makes the point all by itself.

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