Longing for Blue to Be Beautiful

Summary

The content reflects on a personal journey of overcoming a tumultuous relationship, where the color blue transforms from a symbol of pain to one of beauty and healing.

Abstract

The poem "Longing for Blue to Be Beautiful" delves into the narrator's experience of leaving a partner who was emotionally abusive and manipulative. The author describes the struggle with self-doubt and the partner's gaslighting, which led to a loss of self-worth. The narrative unfolds with the narrator's departure from the relationship at the age of 21, taking with them a single blue suitcase, symbolizing both escape and sorrow. The poem is a reflection on the past, expressing surprise at its own revelations, and concludes with the affirmation that blue, once associated with pain, has become the narrator's favorite color, signifying beauty and personal growth. The piece is part of a collaborative project, acknowledging other writers and their contributions to the ongoing poetic conversation.

Opinions

The author conveys a strong sense of personal growth, transitioning from a place of hurt to one of empowerment.
There is an underlying critique of the manipulative partner's behavior, which included gaslighting and verbal abuse.
The color blue is personified, representing the emotional journey from suffering to finding peace and beauty in life after abuse.
The poem serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Gratitude is expressed towards other writers who provided prompts and support, highlighting the importance of community in the healing process.

I had to leave you to find the truth

For the sky to be blue I had to see through your ways of twisting what I knew was true

I struggled though, with your circular logic of deafening judgments shouting, “You’re stupid! The grass isn’t green!”

And I started to believe you more than me until I could no longer see my eyes were black and blue

Blue as in how the Blues are deeply sung my soul at 21 her glass slippers crushed easily.

How could love be so brutal? So, I left you with one blue suitcase shaking, I locked my heart

I was too young escaping from harsh to harsher only longing for blue to be beautiful

I’m really surprised where this poem led me. I had no intention of traveling down a 30+ year ago memory. I was actually 22 in my first marriage. I left him within 2.5 years. He was violent. End of story. And I do know blue can be beautiful. It is my favorite color.

Special thank you to Aimée Gramblin for the writing prompt, blue. Here’s her poem and writing prompt, acceptance given to her by Lucy (the egg girl). The Never-ending Poems were initiated by Martin Rushton. My thanks, extends to each of you.

Carolyn Riker is a writer, social activist, licensed psychotherapist, a lover of learning & words. Her books are available on Amazon.

Longing for Blue to Be Beautiful

I had to leave you to find the truth

Acceptance

A poem