Caffeine

First published in Picaroon Poetry, issue 5
Sundress Publications Best of the Net Award - Nominated

Science says that when you die,

the last sense to go is your hearing.

Imagine that.

Collapsing in the street, helpless,

and after the death rattle,

you hear a bystander calling out,

Oh, fucking hell.

He’s dead.

He’s dead.

He’s dead.

Imagine that.

It’s enough to keep you awake at night.

-- End --

Copyright © by Steven Bruce
51 words

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Poem Analysis: "Caffeine" by Steven Bruce is a brief yet impactful exploration of mortality and the fear of dying alone, framed within the context of a sudden and unexpected death in a public space. Through stark imagery and evocative language, the poem captures the unsettling prospect of experiencing one's final moments while still conscious of the world around them.

The poem opens with a reference to a scientific fact, stating that "when you die, the last sense to go is your hearing." This sets the stage for the contemplation of the final moments of life and the vulnerability of the human condition.

The imagined scenario presented in the poem is both vivid and chilling. The image of collapsing in the street, "helpless," and then hearing the indifferent or callous remarks of bystanders creates a sense of isolation and powerlessness in the face of death. The repetition of "He's dead" by the bystanders emphasizes the finality of death and the coldness of the observers' reactions.

The poem concludes with a haunting reflection on the impact of such a scenario, suggesting that the thought of experiencing such a fate is "enough to keep you awake at night." This line encapsulates the lingering fear and unease provoked by the contemplation of mortality and the fragility of life.

Overall, "Caffeine" confronts the reader with the stark reality of death and the fear of dying alone or amidst indifference. Through its vivid imagery and unsettling scenario, the poem prompts reflection on the nature of mortality and the importance of empathy and compassion in the face of human vulnerability.

 Fractured 

First published on Poetry Potion
Poetry Potions Poem of the Day - Recipient

For most,
the early mornings
are a rush.

For most,
the late afternoons
are clamorous.

The sunlight
shows our sorrows,
and we are too busy
to notice.

We go unattended
into the noise.

We become
a little more

f r a c t u r e d.

We drift apart
from ourselves

until the reflections
are not our own.

We drift apart
from each other

until we are so alone
the ache becomes routine.

The night comes, and we sleep
and dare to remember our dreams,

hope they will still come true

.
The blue transmutes to black,
and we are dead to the world.

The stars hold their tongues
above us as if in quiet reflection.

The saccharine moon bows
as if in mourning for our hearts.

-- End --

Copyright © by Steven Bruce
127 words

If you enjoyed this free poem and wish to support what I do,

please consider  buying me a coffee. 

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Poem Analysis: "Fractured" by Steven Bruce delves into the theme of disconnection and alienation in modern life, exploring how the hustle and bustle of daily routines can lead to a gradual fragmentation of the self and the erosion of meaningful connections with others. Through vivid imagery and introspective reflections, the poem captures the emotional toll of this disconnect and the longing for deeper connection and authenticity.

The poem begins by contrasting the typical hectic pace of early mornings and late afternoons with the underlying sorrows that often go unnoticed in the busyness of life. The imagery of sunlight revealing sorrows emphasizes the idea that despite the outward appearance of productivity and activity, there is an underlying sense of emotional burden and disconnection.

As individuals navigate through the noise and chaos of daily life, they become increasingly fractured, both internally and in their relationships with others. The repetition of "We drift apart" underscores the gradual and insidious nature of this process, highlighting how individuals can lose touch with themselves and with each other amidst the demands and distractions of modern life.

The poem poignantly captures the sense of loneliness and isolation that accompanies this fragmentation, as individuals find themselves increasingly alone with their thoughts and feelings. The imagery of drifting apart from oneself and from others evokes a profound sense of loss and longing for connection.

The concluding stanzas of the poem convey a sense of resignation and quiet despair, as individuals retreat into sleep and the oblivion it offers. However, there remains a glimmer of hope in the possibility of dreams and their potential to offer solace and glimpses of a more fulfilling existence. The imagery of the stars holding their tongues and the moon bowing in mourning further emphasizes the sense of quiet reflection and introspection that pervades the poem.

Overall, "Fractured" offers a poignant exploration of the disconnection and alienation that can characterize modern life, inviting readers to reflect on the importance of nurturing genuine connections with oneself and with others amidst the noise and chaos of the world.