The Ward is a Cold Place

 

 

~

 

Introducing Albert

 

~

 

 

Albert, who is obsessive, never tires

 

Of showing me his bureau drawers,

 

His socks neatly folded, his comb just so. 

 

Albert has been here a very long time. 

 

He is fully institutionalized, absorbed 

 

By the place, wearing the signature cast-off,

 

Ill-fitting clothes, the pallid complexion,

 

The bad haircut, the need to spend quality time

 

In a dentist’s chair, and no sense

 

That there is a world beyond the ward.

 

But Albert likes routine, and in this way

 

It is a good match, for routine is the life-blood 

 

Of the ward. Liking routine as he does,

 

He usually he enjoys his day. It makes his life,

 

And the staffs' life, easier. He becomes frustrated

 

At times, don't we all, and there are tears,

 

Or his version of a tantrum. What little drama

 

He offers is readily assuaged by a stern word,

 

Or a kind one, his affability is always near the surface. 

 

 

 

 ~





Poetry by one trick pony The PoetBay support member heart!
Read 489 times
Written on 2015-07-19 at 06:45

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Lawrence Beck The PoetBay support member heart!
A poem so neat as Albert's sock drawer. I like it.
2015-07-21


Jamsbo Rockda The PoetBay support member heart!
Having OCD I can relate to Albert and his routines. The characters you create are all very interesting :)
2015-07-21


Arunesh dixit
Albert is looking nice and likable, but as Ashe's says he may become a danger if not being heard. However, people like Albert are needed to keep everyone on their duties.
2015-07-20



This makes me so sad to see the spirit has been beaten out of poor Albert by the institutions. Who knows what anger lurks underneath his controlled submission. He is likeable, yes, lovable even, but to me he seems more dangerous than the rest. And, of course, the saddest one yet. Oh Albert, if you could only get your way once!!
2015-07-20



I'm actually seeing a kindred spirit here, I like to have a little sulk too when my comfortable routine is threatened!
2015-07-19



I agree with Shells that Albert is a likable character. He seems to have come to terms with the way he is and has found some peace. There's a lot to be said for that.
2015-07-19


shells
It's a sad read about those less fortunate, but I'm liking Albert.
2015-07-19