A sonnet, by Beverly Stock. Originally published on ClassicalPoets.org on December 20, 2018. It can be found here.
Bleeding heart, a kindly soul Drives demand, you give your gold, Not for the cause they imbue, Guilt sequestered deep in you.
Heavy, heavy, heavy heart: A joyous life’s counterpart You’re undone by whispered words Hearing darkness over heard.
Faint of heart you’ll always be Overwhelmed, harsh tyranny, Cautious of strong emotions Fearful of life’s promotions.
A big man who’s all heart: Woman’s blessing at the start Wants naming rights on all he sees Trophies yes, including she.
Cross my heart and hope to die: Preamble, pledge not to lie Profoundly said, hand on heart Pledge of candor truly smart.
Age be nameless, age be blind Keeping “age” foremost in mind Quells the soul from living art. Beware, remain young at heart.