Forcing the Words

Is it poetry if the words are coerced?
Can we turn a stressful situation-
Full of anger and fear,
Insecurity and grief-
Into an inspirational tale
Of hope and renewal
While we’re still under its influence?
Or are they mere placeholders
For our true feelings
That come tumbling out
In their own time
And rock the foundations
Of everything we are?
Only the poet knows.
Editor: Shannon Hensley









