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The Stilled Quill

How quickly does the candle burn,
that flickering flame that we call life;
Like melting wax the seasons turn,
in faith it burns through toil and strife.

With fingers gnarled, bent and frail,

on parchment yellow now with age;

A figure writes the closing tale,

the final lines on the final page.

 

In time the flame will slowly die,

till melted wax lies cold and still;

The book is closed with one last sigh,

the dying flame has stilled the quill. 

Author notes

Those who have weathered many winters of discontent will fully understand the meaning of this poem.

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Comments

1 - 89 of 89

  • pnrapisora
    November 27
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    Wonderful!

    It is a wonderful piece of art. It is fantastic and meaningful. Feeling is included. Beauty is included. Wonderful!

    Even though I am still young, I really hope to understand this wonderful rhyme. You are truly a professional. With only 12 lines of words, you made people smile by reading this poem, Drybones.

    I could only say that you are fantastic and you deserve being a good poem writer. So, Drybones, continue writing more wonderful and meaningful poems for us here in the poetry world.

    You are enlightening. You know life more than I do.
    I thank you.

    Your poem reader,
    Nico (pnrapisora)


    • drybones
      November 28
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      Edit | Reply
      Nico,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      It is rare that someone of you tender age shows an interest in poetry. That's a great start.

      God bless,
      Drybones


  • Daizee silver member
    November 27
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    Edit | Reply
    Well deserving of the spotlight May we all live in each moment so we may cherish them fully.

    Love,
    Stacy


    • drybones
      November 27
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      Edit | Reply
      Daizee,

      Thank you for taking time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Since I am of a "certain age" and a cancer survivor, I am very aware of the brevity and fragility of life. I resolve to dedicate every remaining moment to purpose and service to my fellow man. In the end, that is the only worthwhile legacy we can leave behind.

      Thanks again.
      Drybones

  • mcheadle
    November 27
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    Edit | Reply

    A great piece of work

    How this touches the hert . Something we all should mull over in our minds as we finish the last few pages in out lives. Words that to late thought are often to late to fix. Good to hear from you sir. Hope you Turkey day had good meaning and was a blessing. Here in Ohio we had our first snow. Scared the crap out of a lot of us , then it melted an went away- in shot we have nothing to fear but fear itself. Not a trace left...God Bless you dear friend...mac


  • TheSoliloquy
    November 27
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    Edit | Reply

    Amazing

    It's been said by others, but brilliant imagery. I'm a whole lot younger than you (one of those "well below 21"), so I probably don't understand the pressures of life and all of that, but I suppose I can take an insufficient guess. A big grin won't count for much from an adolescent, but here goes anyway

  • ogradycolleen
    November 26
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    Edit | Reply

    very good

    As i amreaching those sunset years, autumn turning to winter, I find the poem very enlighening and thought-provoking. Am I ready to still the quill? its great drybones and this site encourages me to dig out my quill and get into it again


    • drybones
      November 27
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      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for you kind remarks concerning my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Since we are the same age, you understand the pressure of time and the brevity of life. I'm still trying to figure out where the last forty years went. That's why I intend to make the most out of the time I have left.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones


  • GlassSlippers
    November 26
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    Edit | Reply
    very well done- perfect in meter, excellent imagery. I don't offer lavish praise often. good job.


    • drybones
      November 26
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      Edit | Reply
      GlassSlippers,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."
      I'm surprised and honored that so many have found merit in this piece. I guess it proves the old adage that even a blind squirrel finds an acorn ever now and then.

      Drybones


  • forvermorejpj
    November 26
    Edit | Reply

    very nice!

    I LOVE it!


    • drybones
      November 26
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      Edit | Reply
      forevermorejpj,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I guess someone expressing their love for a piece is the most lavish of all praise.

      Thank you again,
      Drybones

  • davidwright silver member
    November 26
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    Edit | Reply
    For those of us "well beyond of 21" your poem holds great meaning. It's a worthy write and a great read.

    Happy trails neighbor.


    • drybones
      November 26
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      Edit | Reply
      davidwright,

      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      After reading your profile, I believe you and I have a lot in common. I too was a successful business man chasing the almighty dollar. Realizing there was little value in material things, I began to pursue spiritual understanding. Eventually, I began to feel the call to ministry. I entered seminary at age 51, finishing my studies in three years. After being ordained, I worked as a bi-vocational pastor for a number of years until God spoke to my heart and told me it was time to pursue full time ministry. I chucked a successful career, entered rescue ministry and haven't looked back since. I'm now 68, working every day in ministry and loving every second. I don't believe I'll ever retire.

      Drybones

  • Climbing2nothing
    November 26
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    Edit | Reply
    ahh life often finds the write time for all things, especially poetry...

    w night goggles
    -Jas


    • drybones
      November 26
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      Edit | Reply
      Climbing,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I hope to visit your beautiful country someday before I die.

      Drybones


  • Stirrer of Stardust
    November 18

    Edit | Reply
    I've read this - I can only imagine it was late and I dared not comment in such a sleepy state. Quite simply, this is poetic perfection. I've re-read this aloud, and it continues to grow in magnificence and astounds!

    The imagery is vividly clear, and I especially enjoyed this vision:

    "Like melting wax the seasons turn,"

    *SIGH*

    A Masterpiece in my opinion!

    ya All~Ways,
    ~ Jan ~


    • drybones
      November 19
      Edit | Reply
      Stirrer,

      Wow....I can't remember anyone ever calling one of my poems a masterpiece. That is high praise indeed.

      I really can't tell how good my creations are. I suppose the reason for that is I am super critical of what I write. I always feel I could do better. I see talent in others, but not in myself. For years everything I wrote was written in secret. I shared with no one.

      Fear of rejection still limits what I post on this site. I work and rework a piece until I feel it's the best I can offer, but I'm hesitant to post it even then. I guess I'll never be a prolific writer.

      Drybones


  • Rose Angel gold member
    November 15

    Edit | Reply
    Please don't retire your quill...friend...Your poetic voice needs to be heard..Such a lovely rhyme and flow penning....So moving and wonderfully scribed!


    • drybones
      November 17
      Edit | Reply
      Rose,

      Thank you for your glowing critique of my poem,"The Stilled Quill."

      I'm always a little embarrassed when someone expresses such profuse praise regarding one of my poems or songs. I guess I'm still a little insecure about the quality of my creations.For years, my musings were committed to paper and hidden away from the eye of any curious enough to want to know me better. They were too private to share because they laid bare my inner most thoughts and feelings. In addition, I suppose I also feared rejection because I didn't feel they were good enough for public consumption.

      Becoming a member of this site was a huge step for me and I still find it difficult to post any new musings, fearing it won't meet the standard of good poetry. But, I am progressing.

      Drybones


  • Shakes-spear
    November 13

    Edit | Reply

    very nice

    The quill may be still, but the ink will last forever! Your words ring true for me. I have felt many times the power of God's hand when I write. Sometimes I sit back and wonder how my hand did the work at all. God bless you and yours for many years to come! The Shaker


    • drybones
      November 13
      Edit | Reply
      Shaker,

      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I agree with you about the mystery of creative writing. Sometimes I feel guilty taking credit for something that seems to stem from another hand.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones


  • XXAgedWithDespairXx
    October 23

    Edit | Reply
    It makes one think, to be sure. It is rather lovely in my opinion.
    I am partial to the form myself, though I am not good at using it. The message was well conveyed.


    • drybones
      October 23
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for taking time to read and comment onmy poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I appreciate the comments.

      Drybones


  • jjbreunig3
    October 14

    Edit | Reply

    A lovely piece...

    A lovely piece; enjoyed the poem's flow and verbiage; it's encouraging to know that our faith is with us to the point when our lives are temporarily snuffed out; to be absent from the body means that our spirit will be in God's presence. --Joe


    • drybones
      October 16

      Edit | Reply
      Joe,

      Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I haven't heard from you in a while. I hope all is going well with you and yours.

      Drybones


  • interruptedangel19
    September 24

    Edit | Reply

    Wonderful

    This is an absoultely wonderful poem. I understand this poem. I liked the reference to our spirit and our faith that keeps us moving on even in hard times. Amazing poem.

    ~Audrey~


    • drybones
      September 24
      Edit | Reply
      Audry,

      Thank you for your wonderful comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      You were one of the few that really understood the meaning of what I was trying to say.

      Drybones


  • Ferfer
    September 20
    Edit | Reply
    impressive.. I liked it!


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Ferfer,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Drybones


  • codsta
    September 20
    Edit | Reply
    Beautiful. Simply beautiful


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Codsta,

      Thank you for your kind remarks concerning my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Drybones

  • LovingPhoenix
    September 20

    Edit | Reply
    Beautiful heartfelt write! I love the rhyme and flow! Wonderful!


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      LovingPhoenix,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."
      I appreciate your response.

      Drybones


  • scarface
    September 20
    Edit | Reply

    awesome

    dude, that was cool


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Scarface,

      Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Drybones

  • Ashcashtoobomb
    September 20
    Edit | Reply
    I really love your poem im just startin but u made the poem so realistic


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Ashcashtoobomb,

      Thanks for your comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Drybones

  • Spacecowboy2
    September 20

    Edit | Reply

    absolutely wonderful.

    I wish someday, i could write a poem of your magnitude.
    This is so inspiring, you and other talented poems on this site are the reason i write.


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Spacecowboy2,

      Thanks for you comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I appreciate it more than you know.

      Drybones

  • oceansky
    September 20

    Edit | Reply
    I thought your extended metaphor was great! I especially liked the reference to faith or our spirit that keeps us persevering even in times of trouble. Though I did not see any reference to the joy of life.


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      oceansky,

      Thanks for your kind remarks regarding my poem,"The Stilled Quill."

      It's true that there isn't a reference to the joy of life in this particular poem, but rest assured, my book of life is filled with many joyful moments. In spite of the struggles I have had to face in my life, I believe God has blessed me beyond measure.

      Drybones

      • oceansky
        September 22
        Edit | Reply

        Wonderful

        Am looking forward to reading more of your poetry drybones~ blessings.


  • AngelofMusic666
    September 20

    Edit | Reply
    Wow...this is an absolutely amazing poem. The imagery is beautiful, I think, and quite fitting. Stunning piece of writing, I think.


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      Angelofmusic,

      Thank you so much for your kind and uplifting words regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Any poet is pleased when a creation touches the heart of the reader.

      Drybones


  • dew drop77
    September 19
    Edit | Reply
    Beautiful !!


    • drybones
      September 21
      Edit | Reply
      sonja77,
      Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "the Stilled Quill."

      Drybones


  • Stirrer of Stardust
    September 19
    Edit | Reply
    This poem may be quite short - but it sure does speak volumes. The metaphors are crazy-fantastic, the rhythm and rhyme are sheer perfection.

    In short, brilliance in a brilliant display.....

    ~ ~ Janet ~ ~


    • drybones
      September 19
      Edit | Reply
      Stirrer,

      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Although I have been writing for years, I never shared my work with anyone until three years ago. I was never quite sure how good it was and I suppose I feared rejection and ridicule. I still have difficulty in sharing what I write since it reveals my inner soul, my doubts, my fears and especially my secret pain.

      Comment such as yours makes it worthwhile.

      Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
      Drybones


  • malmadre gold member
    September 19

    Edit | Reply
    Beautifully written, reminding me of how fortunate I am to have rediscovered poetry in my older days and then again how early some lives are snuffed out before the world realizes what they've lost, such as the likes of John Keats. I am such a fan of rhyme and this one reads so fluidly.


    • drybones
      September 19
      Edit | Reply
      malmadre,

      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      As I enter my dotage, I marvel at the brevity of life. It seems it has all passed by so quickly. I have struggled through many valleys of despair, yet never allowed grief or loss to overwhelm me. I survived Vietnam, a heart attack, cancer and the loss of a child, yet I continue to believe God has blessed me beyond measure.

      Life is a precious treasure and love our greatest gift; poetry is our mirror to the soul and a window into our character. Poetry makes it all worthwhile.

      Drybones


  • just2write silver member
    September 19

    Edit | Reply

    Bring it.

    Your poem very aptly brings us to the season of our lives when rain and snow are everywhere, and the spring in our walks is now weighted by the shovels in our hands as we try and clear as pathway. Excellently written and a very nice read, albeit depressing and full with just a tinge of sorrow, now that winter has come to stay. Rose.


    • drybones
      September 19
      Edit | Reply
      Rose,

      Thank you for taking time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I realize the theme may be depressing to some but I prefer to think of it as bittersweet. It was intended to reflect life in all its facets, as a gift, a treasure and an adventure, yet all too brief. We need to make every day count.

      Drybones


      • just2write silver member
        September 20
        Edit | Reply
        The poem indeed was bittersweet. It is perfect. It's just that I was contemplating my aaching back and my own mortality as I red it. Reflections from a senior citizen, I guess. LOL. Rose.

  • Willow Creek
    September 19
    Edit | Reply
    what can I say, but, it's sad, yet beautiful...nicely written : )


    • drybones
      September 19
      Edit | Reply
      Willow Creek,

      Thank you for you kind remarks on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."
      I appreciate you for taking the time to read and comment.

      Drybones

  • Topnotchsy
    September 16

    Edit | Reply
    This is a touching sad write, but a really beautiful piece. Your choice of words and images is vivid and clear, and the idea is a powerful one. The rhythm and rhyming make this a joy to read as well.


    • drybones
      September 16
      Edit | Reply
      Topnotchsy,

      Thank you so much for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."
      I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment.

      Drybones


  • BlueEyeWonder1988
    September 15

    Edit | Reply

    Bravo

    Your a true writer ain't you? those who could write to anything in short verse think of a essay or short story to tell ant and be quick at the words. You seem like one in how you write this poem. "the flickering flame theat we call life" reminds me of Survivor Tv realitiy series for they say the light of your torch at tribal counsel is your light of life on the island or gameshow. In a sence that is true for everyone for everyone has a light in there life they never shut off to keep them going, in your case the quill of writing


    • drybones
      September 15
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I have never seen The Survivor so I have little comprehension of the tribal counsel. It does seem like an apt analogy however.

      Once again, thank you.

      Drybones


  • smitaanand
    September 15

    Edit | Reply
    This is one of the sweetest yet saddest poems about the inevitable death and tranisitory human life that I have come across. You have amazing talent that touches the heart .Thanks for this lovely poem...


    • drybones
      September 15
      Edit | Reply
      smitaanand,

      Thank you for taking time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Like every poet, I am pleased when someone finds some value in one of my creations.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones


  • PoetessA.L.OPrunty
    September 15

    Edit | Reply

    Surreal

    ....The book is closed with one last sigh, the dying flame has stilled the quill.
    This line is so sad but true of life / death. I enjoyed this very much and am touched by your talent.

    A. L. O'Prunty


    • drybones
      September 15
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, The Stilled Quill."

      It is true that the world sees death as an ending, but in reality, it is the beginning of eternity. Our eternal destiny depends on how we walk through this world.

      Drybones


  • ears2hearyou gold member
    September 15

    Edit | Reply
    loved this poem!
    have written a few poems
    in winters of discontent;
    With fingers gnarled, bent and frail
    to match a weary soul.....

    thankgoodness for great poetry
    such as this...to uplift and
    breathe strength and courage
    into her poetic spirits!

    great write!
    loved it!

    ears/Seattle





    • drybones
      September 15
      Edit | Reply
      Ears,

      Thank you for your comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I have weathered a few winters of discontent myself. But, on the other hand, I have been greatly blessed as well. I believe you only learn to appreciate what you have when you are forced to walk through the valley of despair.

      Drybones


  • Predaw
    September 15
    Edit | Reply
    Great write.


    • drybones
      September 15
      Edit | Reply
      Predaw,

      Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I see from your profile you are from Arkansas. I recently moved from West Memphis, Arkansas to Florida.

      Drybones


  • Barry Hodges silver member
    September 14

    Edit | Reply
    As one gets older and one's vital urges go down the toilet, then one understands what you are talking about. It's still bloody depressing.


    • drybones
      September 14
      Edit | Reply
      Ahhhh....A kindred spirit! I agree completely.

      Thanks for the kind comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Drybones


  • Quill
    September 14
    Edit | Reply
    Beautiful write, one we shall all read out aloud, sooner or later


    • drybones
      September 14
      Edit | Reply
      Quill,

      Thank you for your comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      You are correct, every one of us will be silenced someday.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones





  • Eusebius
    September 14

    Edit | Reply
    A short but absolutely superb poem! Excellent, so poignant and so very beautiful. Brilliantly concieved and flawlessly executed! I loved it!


    • drybones
      September 14
      Edit | Reply
      Michael,

      Good to hear from you.

      Thanks for your kind words on my poem, "The Stilled Quill." It's the first thing I have written in months. I just don't have the time any more. I thought moving to Florida would allow me to slow down. Sadly, that hasn't turned out to be the case.

      The ministry I work for has cut back on staff, which has added a lot to my plate. I'm getting too old for this, but I refuse to quit until God tells me to do so.

      Thanks again,
      Fred

  • shuntashay
    September 14
    Edit | Reply

    Deep Poem

    I enjoy your poem. Love life and love Jehovah before the flickering flame dies.


    • drybones
      September 14
      Edit | Reply
      shuntashay,

      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill." I appreciate your comments.

      I see from your profile you are from Arkansas. I moved from West Memphis, Arkansas to Florida one year ago.

      Drybones


  • Uniquely-Scarred
    September 14

    Edit | Reply
    i enjoyed this even tho I didn't get the metaphor, i still liked the choice of words, most of all these:

    In time the flame will slowly die,

    till melted wax lies cold and still;

    The book is closed with one last sigh,

    the dying flame has stilled the quill.


    • drybones
      September 14
      Edit | Reply
      Thank you for your kind remarks regarding my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      The metaphor is the brevity of life. I am 68 years old, a cancer survivor, a diabetic and a heart attack survivor. I fully realize that my time is short.(re: the candle) I also realize that my quill will be stilled once the candle flame (life) dies.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones


  • Cold Blue Eyes
    September 13

    Edit | Reply
    I am not one to enjoy rhyming lines, but this was well done.


    • drybones
      September 13
      Edit | Reply
      Cold Blue Eyes,

      I'm pleased you enjoyed my poem, "The Stilled Quill." I consider your comment to be high praise indeed, considering you are no great fan of rhyme.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones

  • amysticwriter silver member
    September 13

    Edit | Reply
    as long as the ink flows
    the quill cannot be stilled
    think of all those who need you
    and write yourself a thrill
    hugs, mystic


    • drybones
      September 13
      Edit | Reply
      amysticwriter,

      Thank you for your comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I must say that your comment is the most poetic I have ever received, in rhyme that is.

      Drybones


  • SpydurPoet gold member
    September 13

    Edit | Reply
    Wow. That was absolutely stunning. I adored this. The imagery in this was just...spectacular. Bravo!!
    Write on.
    ~*~SP~*~


    • drybones
      September 13
      Edit | Reply
      Thanks for your comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      I guess this poem reflects the ever increasing awareness of my mortality. The older I get, the shorter the candle.


      Drybones


      • SpydurPoet gold member
        September 13
        Edit | Reply
        Yes, I figured that was what it was about. But you have done a crazy beautiful job portraying it.


  • Rose Angel gold member
    September 13
    Edit | Reply
    Friend, beautiful sentiments written here, on the poet's heart and the fading in and out of muse, and perhaps energy with age, and life's trials...Reflective, packed with emotion, your imagery paints vivid pictures of the characteristics of a poet! Keep penning!


    • drybones
      September 13
      Edit | Reply
      Rose,

      Thanks for the comments on my poem, "The Stilled Quill."

      Even your comments reveal your poet's heart and your mystic ability to see beyond the obvious.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones

  • mcheadle
    September 13

    Edit | Reply

    This is a super write

    I hope your quill is a long ways from being stilled. Good to hear from you hope all is well. Missed you writtings. Good to see you are still with the quill...mac


    • drybones
      September 13
      Edit | Reply
      Thanks for the comments on my poem "The Stilled Quill."

      It's true that I haven't been very active lately, not out of a lack of desire to write, I just simply don't have the time any more. You would think at my age I would be able to slow down enough to do what I love, but that's not the way it's working out.

      Thanks again,
      Drybones

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