The Echoes poetry competition to celebrate Write Out Loud's 20th anniversary is now open.  Judged by Neil Astley.

Competition closes in 55 days, 6 hours. Get details and Enter.

Momentarily face to face with Kublai!

Gradually mind leaving

and drifting into the sheltered world of sleep

(or so I thought it was!) because

there astride a mighty warhorse

staring menacingly in my direction Kublai Khan!

 

A fiercesome figure from history

very much entered into

by the gainings of a hard won reputation

and in turn also reaping

every aspect of powerfulness

 

What are you to say of such a man

who could carve out and spread

the smell of fear and death

from virtually nothing that was so destructive

and indestructible

what are you to do in such a presence but tremble!

 

A dream

but touched upon by a great frightening

subliminal show  of reality!

🌷(8)

The truth of being settled ►

Comments

TOM MERTON

Fri 14th Feb 2025 20:20

Ladies and gentlemen, I am tipping a nod of gratitude in each of your directions.

Rolph, loved your kindly comment, along with your very clever limericks and poems, in particular-

The World Poisoner

Excellent!

Rolph David

Sat 8th Feb 2025 16:36

Dear Tom,

The tension between the dream world and reality is vividly conveyed as you grapple with the fear and awe of Kublai Khan’s presence. The portrayal of his power and the sense of inevitable destruction he carries is chilling, making the reader almost feel the weight of his historical significance. I love how you blur the lines between dream and reality, turning an encounter with a legend into a haunting, almost tangible experience. Perfect!
Regards,
Rolph

If you wish to post a comment you must login.

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse, you are agreeing to our use of cookies.

Find out more Hide this message