the complicity of reverse lines

levels of manipulation
stretch backwards
as immutable queues

obvious though easily ignored
while concern rests with oblivion
and life's daily apprehensions
which force knee to cradle youth

answers lie behind us
and occupy steps which follow
even in caboose of plain vision

though china-doll treachery
leaves a distinct odor

Author notes

Artist credit:
Jealousy by manips-of-artist2

A contest entry

Pretty Picture Prompt # 22 by kiwigirljacks. 600 points, ended October 13, 2008, 15 entries
Bronze trophy winner
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest

Comments

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By me, right now

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kiwigirljacks
October 10, 2008

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Manipulation and treachery! Such evil bed partners!!

Sigh.. why is it that answers are behind us sometimes when we're trying to look forward.. guess we have to always look back hey..

Excellent unique take!
LadyDementia
October 9, 2008

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OOh love the two last lines here! Fantastic way to end. 'china-doll treachery' makes me think of some sweet looking girl (or boy) who has the heart of the devil. Nicely done, thanks for entering and good luck
notorious
October 9, 2008

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Me gusta
I liked this.
My only nitpick was all the pretentious words... But when I thought of suggestions, I could think of none, so obviously, pretentious words work in your favor for this.

I like "stretch backwards" and those last 2 italicized lines...perfectooooo!

Jessica
Starz of Heaven
October 8, 2008

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Oh I love this I cant belive I missed this contest
you did a great job here goodluck to you in the contest best wishes
KayJay
October 7, 2008
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A creative and multi-layered write, Mark... Excellent!
Best of luck...
Ken
Carolina Moon
October 7, 2008

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Wow, if I'd read this first I would never have reserved Brilliant bro w00t Best of luck !
Valley Girl
October 7, 2008

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Great stuff cuz! Awesome imagery! Best of luck!