Words of Farewell

by John Herlihy

Two love-struck people betwixt and between.

Caught in the net of love, what might it mean?

Modern star-crossed lovers in search of a mate,

Not outside but inside the lovers lies their fate.

Do not let me hear tender words of farewell,

That fall into my soul as stones in a deep well.

Falling into murky waters not causing a ripple,

One day yes, the other no. such attitude fickle.

Flaunting happiness the day long without care,

While I left in my solitude, whispering a prayer.

One day she wants to stay, another she will go,

Her thoughts each day as chill winds that blow.

Where the love that offers a sense of stability,

When indifference only offers sheer instability.

Her affection comes in bursts, then disappears,

Receiving a bonus that feels as debt in arrears.

The desire, the hope, the warmth, the longing,

Loving attachment to give a sense of belonging.

The withdrawal, the confusion, leads to despair,

The expectation of favor heard in ardent prayer.

Such raw ambivalence seemingly there to taunt,

The lover knows not what the other may want.

What to do with such love that is intermittent,

Loveless love unwilling to make a commitment.

Across the length of days, to seek consistency,

Interactive love that offers bliss thru intimacy.

In the end, farewell, fare thee well, left to say,

With a made-up mind, you quietly walk away.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Tuesday 16 December 2025