NaPoWriMo Day 21: The Magical Words

The prompt for Day 21 of NaPoWriMo is to write a poem that incorporates overheard speech. It could be something you’ve heard on the radio, or a phrase you remember from your childhood, even something you overheard a coworker say in the break room! Use the overheard speech as a springboard from which to launch your poem. Your poem could comment directly on the overheard phrase or simply use it as illustration or tone-setting material.

Here’s my take at it, in tandem with our monthly theme, “Optimism”!

“Nothing’s worth your tears,

tears are just a feast for your fears

Crying is never worthwhile

It’s best to stride with your smile”

I heard the woman console her child

Who had lost the game and seemed resigned

“Let failure rekindle the spark in you

Don’t let the loss overpower you!”

Her words embossed in my heart and mind

Like a magic mantra to assist me unwind

The image of failure turned upside down

With the modest rule of “Never frown”

Widening lips was no more a task

I never had to wear a pretentious mask

Tears and fears felt famished all the time

And soon relocated without a chime

Smile adorned wings to my enthusiasm

Failure failed to shudder my confidence

Her magical words were a box of treasure

That gifted me pleasure in every endeavor