Conflicted by Philip Brent

Mentioned rarely in polite conversation, as I follow you around
You will never see or hear me, because I never make a sound
Unknown the land where I will one day lead you, an adventure
Sometimes I’ll snatch you unprepared, curtail your time here

Still, whether slow or sudden, I choose always the correct time
To introduce myself to you, young or old, or even in your prime
Comfortable, warm at home, I may choose to steal your crown
In brightest day take you, thief in the night, yet always known

Patient in ways you cannot comprehend, no time too long to wait
You play hard to get, but I will court you, win you, as sure as fate
Like any challenge you confront, recognize you will pass this test
Slow and intimate or whirlwind romance, I know you will say yes

Shade or shadow you name me, loath to admit I steer you to light
Inevitable, you dub me grim ghoul, resist me with all your might
Afraid and alone, tie your blindfold and pretend I don’t hold sway
As I gently lead you through dark alleys and onto the lighted way

                                    ~          ~          ~          ~

Boldly, with you I stride forth, yet you may choose to lag behind
To adventure urge you, guide you, yet you often pay me no mind
Instead, you run and hide; simply disappear, no apparent reason
Watch others go forth to thrive or fail, like each and every season

Boon companion, I’m constant, caring as you seek your treasure
I’m along for the ride, if all you seek is solitude or only pleasure
I hold on tightly, even when you push me away, say, “I hate you.”
I am taskmaster, teacher, mentor, no matter what you pursue

Around blind corners I push you, where you may find your love
Into the future I carry you and so give you the impetus to move
Always, I walk beside you, hold your hand through sun or sorrow
I shall match you step for step each day until your last tomorrow

You close your eyes and ears, describe your journey without sound
Follow in the imposed, agreed-to, well-worn patterns, culture bound
Yet, ask yourself, which do you fear more, the darkness or the light
For the sun creates the shadows, but brightly blaze the stars at night
Please click on the links below to find my art, prints, greeting cards and gift items.

Philip Brent Digital Art and Photography
Philip Brent on Fine Art America
Brent Harris Fine Art
Brent Harris on Fine Art America
The Extra Mile

Commissions Accepted