Stranger Within (poem) by John Herlihy on AuthorsDen

Stranger Within
by John Herlihy → (All Poetry by John Herlihy)
Sunday, February 15, 2026 Rated "G" by the Author.

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The Stranger Within by John Herlihy On occasion, I find a stranger that lies within, There within me with a shy grin. Not knowing me but wanting to be known, Not knowing the stranger but wanting to know. Another existence within me and near, A comforting existence right now, right here. An unknown persona bearing a personal gift, A stranger unknown to you, your heart to uplift. We think we know who we really are, But there within us lies some distant star. A stranger waiting to be a friend, A subtle stranger with no need to pretend. Secrets expressed that will never be told, Suggestions offered that will never be retold. In the darkness of mind, a spark of intimacy, A stranger just waiting there full of mystery. Speak to him intimacies upon whom to rely, Finally, another true self who will never tell a lie. There in the shadows who harbors no regrets, Behaving as somebody who readily forgets. Speak to him of happiness, misery and sorrow, Speak to him as if there is no tomorrow. That one stranger we never before befriended, Who listens attentively when our life is upended. - - - - Copyright © John Herlihy Sunday 26 October 2025

Reviewed by Jms Bell

Reviewed on February 24, 2026

YES, ISN'T HE MARVELOUS!!?? BUT THE FACT IS...HE ISN'T A STRANGER AT ALL. FOR, HE KNOWS YOU BETTER THAN YOU KNOW YOURSELF. HIS NAME IS...JESUS! HE LOVES YOU AND DIED FOR YOU AND...HE IS YOUR FRIEND. AMEN. ENJOYED, IMMENSELY, THANKS. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS

Reviewed by Rebecca McKeehan

Reviewed on February 16, 2026

This is a very insightful poem as it weaves through the relationships we have with ourselves as well as others. I especially liked "we! Think we know who we really are. But there within us lies some distant star." Very moving.

Rebecca

Reviewed by Odin odin@aflx.com

Reviewed on February 15, 2026

Perhaps some would say your stranger within was your soul. Others may have a more secular opinion of the friend. For me, your description suggests a version of yourself that is like a fail-safe person or place to go when one feels there's nowhere else to turn for clarification or an answer to a perplexing query. To acknowledge that such an entity exists, speak also of imagination, an inner quality that perhaps can learn new directions to think and exercise, but needs to be recognized and respected first. Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong. Thanks for posting a rousing word play that truly speaks to many of us.