-Jane Cornwell 
Homeless
-John Law
She’s small, like a little mouse, curled into a recess
empty-bellied, shivering,
the newspaper not much insulation—old news–
homelessness. And if it’s new to her, the whys are not—
her stepdad’s roving hands, no work, the cries within her head. . .
in a fitful sleep, she dreams of spring,
filling her small rodent body with tender berries and leaves—
all the people gone, their power plants silent, and she is at peace.
For Paul Brookes Ekphrastic Challenge. My poem is inspired by the two images above. You can see all of the art and poems on the Wombwell Rainbow site. All of these poems are first drafts, and I’ve revised this one since I sent it to Paul yesterday, so this version is different from the one on his site. This is also for NaPoWriMo.
Yesterday and today: Merril's historical musings 
Well done, Merril. You’re proving that it’s definitely NaEXCELLENTPoWriMo.
Thank you, Ron! That made me smile. 😀
Yes, another great poem Merril: so sad to imagine that small body curled up under a newspaper!
Thank you very much, Ingrid! It is so sad.
The images were all rather desperate yesterday. This poem made me want to cry.
Sorry I’m so late getting round to reading. I haven’t caught up with anything yet.
Thank you, I suppose something worked, if my poem made you cry. 😀
No need to apologize, I know you’ve been busy. I am behind on reading–and everything!
I know!
😀
The pictures evocative, your poetry as well, Merril. “Mice and men” need homes.
I support the shelters that help the homeless in our city every month. The poor will always be with us; it is my/our job to help them, no matter what the reason for their lack of shelter. Or food . . .
Thank you very much, Marian.
Very graphic Merril, so sad, so real – I had to read it twice –
Thank you so much, Susan!
Reblogged this on The Wombwell Rainbow.
Thank you, Paul.
Excellent emotions, Merril. Great empathy. As an ex-foster child it really hit home. ❤️
Thank you so much, Colleen. I’m glad it resonated. I didn’t know, or didn’t remember that you had been a foster child.
A long time ago, but sometimes those emotions creep in. Your poetry always touches me. No worries ❤️
Thank you, Colleen. ❤️
Wow, really wonderfully done, Merril. It’s heart-wrenching. As others have noted, so real, so sad.
Thank you so much, Marie! 💙
This is a very affecting poem, particuarly how you’ve used the rodent metaphor for the state of homelessness.
Thank you very much, Liz. The rodent came from the image. I don’t think I would have thought of it otherwise.
You’re welcome, Merril. The rodent in the image does seem so vulnerable almost hidden in the corner.
I think you’re right.
Another continuing problem we sweep under the rug. Your reminder tugs at the heart. (K)
Thank you very much, Kerfe.
So very compassionate
Thank you, Derrick.
So sad and beautiful at the same time. Beautifully done, Merril.
Thank you very much, Dale! 😀
You are welcome!