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Black Dog.

Submitted by Alex Tanner on Tue, 2024-06-04 11:11

I sense him come bounding like a stone
That skips the water when it is thrown,
Up to my side a companion of old,
I welcome him though my blood runs cold.

Thankful am I that he will not stay
Though I do not know how long the days
Just that my pet will stay close to my side,
Hiding the sun, let no warmth abide.

My black dog sits always close to me
No comfort he gives, No light to see,
Just cold grey clouds that block the sun,
Cast me down to the pit where despair does run.

Till at last he flies
Swift as he came.
Clouds clear the skies,
Warmth is felt again.

Last few words: 
Fortunately I have never suffered from depression (though frequently get pissed off). I had a friend who did, badly when the mood came upon him. I have used his description of it in these words. I hope I have done him justice.
Editing stage: 
Editing - rough draft
Workshop: 
Earn A Poem Workshop 1
Contest: 
06/24 Living With Depression
Content level: 
Not Explicit Content

Comments

Rula

Tue, 2024-06-04 14:04

Rula's picture
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Another good writing about depression this night.
I especially like the metaphor of the Black Dog.
I thankfully have never experienced depression myself.
The last few lines that come up with hope sound great though I know it could be strengthened by mentioning maybe what's that might trigger the Black Dog's departure? Could be taking maybe some meds or receiving perhaps some good care...etc.
Just thoughts as you know better as the author of this well-written piece.
Best wishes
Thank you for sharing.

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Alex Tanner

Tue, 2024-06-04 17:19

Alex Tanner's picture

Thanks for your comments. I could have made it more descriptive perhaps but being limited to 20 lines I would have had to cram it. I think hope does not come into it. He knew when a bout of depression was soon to strike (a few hours) from a feeling but he never knew when it would end. Always at night, he would retire depressed and when he awoke it had lifted. He never took medication. When he knew an attack was imminent he would go to a local monastery where they would let you stay in a sparse cell for a small donation. The peace and tranquility helped. I believe Winston Churchill, who also suffered from depression, coined the phrase 'Black Dog' in a letter to his wife Clementine in 1911. I think I would have needed another 20 lines to really do justice. Thanks for your comments, always welcome. Alex.

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Candlewitch

Thu, 2024-06-06 07:55

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Dear Sir,

You have done it justice!

*hugs, Cat

*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.

Alex Tanner

Thu, 2024-06-06 17:12

Alex Tanner's picture

Thanks for that. Appreciated. Alex.

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