Poems Are Like Children

Poems are like children
strange as that might seem
but if you’ve ever raised one
you’ll know just what I mean.

Each will have their own 
personality
no matter how you try
to tell them what to be.

You might have an angel
who’ll do just what you say
but then her little brother
might make your hair turn grey.

If you have a daughter
as shy as she can be
no matter what you try
she’ll never be carefree

And if you have a son
who’s boisterous and bold voiced
it’s just the way he is
regardless of your choice.

If you try to mould them 
into something they are not,
you might have lofty plans
but they will foil your plot.

So remember what I’ve said,
don’t worry, no don’t fret,
learn to let it be itself,
embrace the poem you get. 


dec 2003
©Janet Reid