I wrote this poem in 1985, 17 years old, for a dear friend. A friend is someone who has seen you in every light and still accepts you. The poem is sad and nostalgic in its tone. Compare this poem to the happier note expressed in Grace, also from 1985.
What shall I pen for you
My Friend?
You know all the verses
The verses of my youth
My girlhood and womanhood.
What robes shall I wear
For you?
You have seen me in strength
In the dignified robes of strength
You have seen me
In rags of humiliating weakness.
What shall I unfold to you?
You have seen the light
And the darkness of my soul
You have seen my spirits soar
And then plunge into murky depths.
You have known the lies
Of my poor existence
This false grandeur you have seen
My pretences are mere pretences
You know that very well.
But you have seen my Truth –
Haven’t you?
Tell me –
Who was she?
That creature who enthralled others
With nuances of expression
And changing moods?
Who was that shimmering creature
Who seemed to glow all over
With the love of life?
Where did she go?
So –
What shall I give you
My Friend?
How shall I repay
This debt of friendship
To you?
Vanita Shukla Hork, 1985
If you liked this poem, you will enjoy my book Friends (Memories from another Lifetime). Available on Amazon, free on KindleUnlimited. Please do leave a review.
