I picked out the words(in bold) from the novel, Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult for no particular reason than that it was kept right in front of me. I had liked this book very much. I offer this for Monday Poetry Train too.
after sending him to school-
she sat down with her book
jotting down from it for her impeding case,
which was much like a crossword puzzle.
phone ringing had her get up from her chair,
absentminded, she answered it.
in a moment, her blood curdled-
picking her stuff, she drove out fast.
huddled amongst other children
her son sat quiet, no words coming out.
he hardly reacted looking at her.
her heart sinking, she held him close.
he refusing to look her in the eye.
taking him to a doctor, she finally
knew, he had been molested by
someone they had trusted him with.
with no witnesses, case can not proceed
wheels of time would destroy her son.
blinded with rage, taking law into her hand,
against her better judgement, she killed
that molester dead, right inside the court
in front of hundreds of witnesses-
journalists descending like vultures to record.
in saving her son, had she sold her soul?
22 comments:
holy moly!
amazing the journey on which random words can take us
interesting!
What a story! It's one of those no win situations. I like the way you managed to incorporate all those words.
Jodi is a great writer, usually depressing as hell, but a great writer
Well done ............. Is all I can say.
Not something I can comment about my friend.
Powerful poem.
*stunned silence*
You never fail to blow me away with your contributions to the Poetry Train. Thanks for sharing your talent.
Wow. That ending is unexpected -- and raises a darn good question, too.
I have a question, though. Did you find it hard to pick these words and write something original, or are there echoes of the book's plot in here that, since I haven't read the book, I'm not picking up on?
I have been on a Jodi Picoult kick all fall and I love the books. I haven't read this one yet but will have to now, for sure!
This is a tremendous poem and put me right there!
all stories could use a review like this. smile.
Like Missy, I'm always amazed by the calibre of the poetry you come up with, on the spot. This is great:
'phone ringing had her get up from her chair,
absentminded, she answered it.
in a moment, her blood curdled-'
Really whips the direction around and it just keeps spiraling from there.
Yes, what a story. You write so well, Gautami.
That is greatly done! I think I would feel just the same as her if I would learn that somebody would have molested my future children!
Greatly done Gautami!
Jodi is a favorite of mine too. You used her words in a chilling tale. Well done!
I think it's interesting to write a poem in response to another work. It extends the meaning of the novel, and your poem.
What a story! It isn't the kind of book I'm drawn too - it would keep me up nights, I'm afraid. I'm hoping your poem won't either :-) though it is powerful and poses quite the question.
You can see my effort at
Onward
She did not sell her soul.
She did exactly what needed to be done...
and I would know.
You used the words well. I've never read anyhting by her, I have to admit
Wow and wow and wow Gautami.
I read this thru three times and each time it delivered more of a punch. The topic is also something I've thought about.
I can almost see myself switching places with her...molestation of a child is a crime that should be punished- and only death would be right! ...Jodi writes so well, as a parent, I often worry about reading her books as they are so real! And your review, superb!
UL
another powerful and poignant piece!
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