The shock!
The shock!
She wears a crucifix and she and swears her head off!
Instantly I need a brandy or a cocktail of Molotov!
It’s for the shock.
Where all stop and stare
In one way or another
We all have our crosses to bear
Review: The shock!
What a shocking opening line to the poem!
The poet is astonished and brings attention to the swearing that has taken place from someone who overtly demonstrates their belief by wearing a symbol of their faith and is cursing loudly. It appears to be behaviour that’s potentially out of character. It could be or not? Something must have happened to this individual right?
but like I’ve said, those are just the opening words of a short poem. Where is it to go? – whoa!
The next ‘shocker’ for me, is the immediate response to it from the poet!
Alcohol, with the choice of drink of a brandy or a cocktail… but not just any cocktail, it’s not a typical, Pimms, Cosmopolitan or Sex on the beach. I learn that the ‘cocktail’, if it actually is ‘drinkable’ from a ‘trendy’ bar, is inspired by a ‘DIY’ handmade incendiary device that is thrown! (Crumbs! There are big flames involved. I think I need to be seated or be ready to run!)
Do we all as human being’s harbour swear words which are ready to launch at any given moment if the circumstances deem it necessary to? Apart from swearing, what do folks do to cope with feelings of anger , despair and frustration? Some may have the thoughts buried deep and keep the words to themselves? Others may indeed swear, drink and my some may even write a bit of poetry (!) or maybe all three? Soothing solutions are needed. (Many questions and stories for future times)
Back to the poem where ‘all’ have stopped and are having a good look. Is it because of the person swearing or the poet drinking? It appears they, whoever they are, and however many there are, are in a state shock too.
I find it equally alarming and hilarious how both alcoholic beverages were simultaneously thought of as either/or options!
I suspect it’s not the first time that the poet has thought in this way.
Nice rhyming words used to drive and anchor the poem. Liking the link between the crucifix at the start of poem to ‘the cross’ at the end.
A unifying little poem that recognises that all have stresses to cope with and burdens to put up with in one way or another in our lives. What are we to do? I love the title. An eye opening, engaging, and dramatic read. I may be shocked, but I’m not surprised.