This was written for this week’s Totally Optional Prompt: tempo. I chose to write about an alternate meaning of the word for this hay(na)ku chain. Enjoy.
-Nicole
you
made me
lose a tempo
by
backing me
into a corner
I
moved only
in pure defense
to
avoid being
put in check
my
queen sports
a hairline crack
your
king is
worn with age
we
end in
a sad stalemate
perhaps
this was
the wrong game
Written 7/10/08
© 2008 Nicole Nicholson. All Rights Reserved.
It is always a stalemate and nobody wins – just lots of pain and trying to move on – such a waste when beings that gave themselves their all turn and try for winner takes all. But as you say the game is done and no one’s won……
Chess as a metaphor for a relationship. Loved it.
I agree the chess game works very well as a metaphor… I saw the word “stalemate” in a new light in the context of growing tired with your partner! And an interesting take on the word “tempo”.
nice metaphor…
Thank you, everybody. This was written from a place where I was about ten years ago. I have learned the hard way how painful this really is.
-Nicole
Even read through without pausing at the line breaks (which, by the way, add an interesting backed into a corner feeling), your words have a flow and a rhythm that lend themselves well to the subject matter.
So often I feel exactly the same way. This really spoke to me! Wonderful poem!
Oh, this is sad.
Yeah, you’re right tempo is a chess move and your poem is very true to life.
I agree with Noah – very painful! Like everyone else I think this was a great metaphor, and the tempo was just right. Well done!
Right now, I relate to this…
tears trickle slowly
Thank you, everyone. I first didn’t know if I wanted to expose myself this much. Now, I know it’s worth it.
Thank you.
-Nicole
Thank you for opening your soul for us to read.
You’re welcome, Brian.
-Nicole