I wrote Soul on Knees in 1982, when I was 13 years old. It captures the nature of despair, when all seems hopeless and one is lost in darkness. Compare this poem to Contemplation (1984), with its similar theme of darkness.
My soul is on its knees –
I can feel the despair
Engulf me.
I try to cry but
The tears won’t come out –
Darkness is all I see.
Suddenly
It is bleak winter
For me –
My soul is on its knees.
No help extended
I’m all alone
I’m helpless –
Can’t you see?
No emotions, feelings
There is only a void –
I cannot comprehend
I cannot see the light.
Yes –
My soul is on its knees.
Loneliness is my main foe
If only the shadows would go.
Why are you smiling and happy
When I am down –
When I smile
Why do you frown?
I need you, I need you
Or it is only your strength –
My soul is on its knees.
Why does light evade me
And darkness engulf?
What have I done
To deserve this?
Questions, questions
I see no answers now –
Oh, Despair!
To Thee my head I bow.
Vanita Shukla Hork, 1982
If you liked this poem, you will enjoy my book Memories from another Lifetime: Pain. Available on Amazon, free on KindleUnlimited. Please do leave a review.
Hi Vanita,
this is very sad
Is it about a broken relationship or another reason for despair?
When we are young, we feel those feelings for the first time. it makes them more engulfing, I think. Ageing sucks but it relativates a lot of those bad feelings. One knows one will get through it in the end. As a youth? Not so much so.
Hugs
Thank you so much, Brigitte 🙏❤️ I believe this poem shows what the dark night of the soul looks like – the real despair, anguish, and darkness. It transcends age, I think 🌷
This is so beautiful and sad, Vanita . Thank you for sharing the sorrow of your soul, so others might know they are not alone in their journey…
Thank you so, much, Rebecca, this means so much to me! I’ve heard others say the same – that my poems make them feel as if they are not alone. I am both honoured and humbled, if I can help others on their journey 🙏 Sending you much love ❤️