Okay, so poetry isn’t my forte. I didn’t get good reviews of the following in class. I tweaked it and I kind of like it now. What do you think? I’m trying to branch out and be a better writer over all. I’m proud of my ballad, but maybe I’m too close to the project. This poetry class had been a blow to my ego, but I’m learning to take criticism better. Maybe my poetry is crappy. Oh well, practice makes perfect! By the way, this is partially true, partially fiction, so no grief about the subject matter, please. :-)
Ballad of Becoming Dad
Daddy died an untimely death.
Drank too much alcohol.
Never woke up that morning.
His brother made the call.
His boy always needed extra help.
A late bloomer was he.
Working two jobs, just started another.
New one was putting letters on the marquis.
The Texas night was windy.
The fish joint was shorthanded.
Boy was asked to update the sign.
From twenty feet, on his he landed.
Broken ankles, back, and both feet.
He was rushed by ambulance.
Surgeries and months in the hospital.
Broken body parts and his countenance.
Family helped the boy in his need.
Gave him a home. Only had to keep it clean.
Offered to pay for school, he refused.
He treated members like foes, their fiend.
Boy received small settlement.
To him it was a large sum.
Instead of giving to family for his bills.
Spent it on pizza, guitars, beer, the bum!
Now he’s like his father.
Success he does dread.
Drinking away his life.
Drinking until he’s dead.
