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Neat

Sitting on the train,

Neat houses flash by.

But life is not neat,

Though houses may be.

 

Behind those neat walls

Lurk furious hearts,

Unleashed as soon as

The train disappears.

 

These airtight dramas

Lie far from our minds.

We keep our heads down.

Our neat lives go on.

SocietyHuman Behavior

◄ The Sunshine Boys

Comments

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Stephen Gospage

Thu 20th Feb 2025 21:01

Thank you, Rolph. This came to me on a train journey between Brussels and Antwerp. I always keep a notebook handy to jot down ideas.
Rows of houses, nearly kept, conjure up a sense of perfection, of contentment. And yet, who knows what emotions stir behind those walls? Untold stories, as you so rightly say.
Thanks again for your kind comments.

And my thanks to all of you who liked this poem.

Rolph David

Thu 20th Feb 2025 16:01

Stephen,
Your words beautifully highlight the contrast between outward appearances and the hidden complexities beneath the surface. The neat houses passing by symbolise the seemingly orderly lives people lead, while the underlying "furious hearts" remind us that not everything is as perfect as it seems. The imagery of "airtight dramas" and the idea of keeping our heads down suggests a poignant reflection on how we often distance ourselves from the struggles of others. It’s a powerful reminder that behind every neat exterior, there are untold stories and emotions. A thought-provoking piece! I love it!
Regards,
Rolph

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