I’m joining in on the dVerse Quadrille today. The challenge is always a fun exercise in discipline: write a poem of exactly 44 words, including one specific prompt word. This week’s prompt word brings a smile to my face.
Today’s word is “smile.”
Instead of going for something cheerful, I wanted to explore the tension behind the expression. I also decided to make the prompt word the finish line—saving “smile” for the very last beat of the poem.
Here is my 44-word take.
The Performance
From ear to ear
as if that's what I'm really
here for.
Giving you an earful
of playful cheers, pull
tears off like dried up
streams. Eyes wide shut
with feels that glide
off the tongues vibe.
Teeth tight surreal,
at you I smile.
I’d love to hear how this resonated with you. Does a “playful cheer” always accompany a smile, or do you find yourself “pulling off tears” to make room for one?
Check out the other 44-word responses over at the dVerse Poets Pub. Thanks for reading!
Thank you for visiting with me. For more Poetry or Literature related content, visit my blog at The Ritual. May a smile inspire your journey through words. Copyright Mind on Fire Books.
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