September 15th, 2025
by Ross Gormley
as I look back, both weathered & worn
voice of gravel, breath of shoreline
I reflect and catch glimpses of you / me –
they ripple on nature's mirror,
sowing droplets of shame.
crow-faced and zebra-skinned,
I am the old dog,
a knotweed seed of doubt,
always reaching.
can my laughter still be heard on the wind?
or is it faded like my face?
do you remember the unflinching anger
in eyes so young?
why didn't you try harder?
why?
never for me to know,
but all for me to accept.
for I am the knotweed-cut, but won't forget.
like a flocked bird,
absence: the consequence.
About the Poet
Ross Gormley resides in Wexford, Leinster, Ireland.
Read the poet's biography and Wax Poetry and Art publications
on Ross Gormley's Artist Page.
This poem is also featured in Comet #6,
published in the Wax Poetry and Art Library.
Previously published in Dublin Poetry Magazine:
The Leprachaun Jig
by Dean Monaghan
Dublin Poetry Magazine is part of the Wax Poetry and Art Network.
- Visit the main Wax Poetry and Art Submissions Page to see all opportunities.
- Visit the Wax Poetry and Art Library.
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