avatarRavyne Hawke

Summary

The content reflects on the evolving role of a mother as her children grow and the shifting dynamics of authority and respect in the journey from motherhood to grandmotherhood.

Abstract

The poem series titled "The Waning of Authority" delves into the intimate experiences of motherhood and aging. It portrays the transformation of a mother's role and authority as her children mature, have children of their own, and eventually prioritize their own families. The narrative begins with the mother's sense of dominion and the respect instilled in her children, emphasizing her educational influence and deep connection with them. However, it progresses to a poignant realization that with time, her role diminishes to that of 'just grandmother,' with her wisdom and experience no longer sought after. The piece concludes with a nod to the author's broader body of work, inviting readers to explore more of her writing on various platforms.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a sense of loss and nostalgia for the time when her authority and wisdom were valued by her children.
  • There is an underlying pride in the mother's role in raising well-educated children with deep roots, suggesting a successful upbringing.
  • The poem reflects on the bittersweet nature of parenthood, where the success of raising independent children leads to a decrease in their dependence on the parent.
  • The shift from being a central figure in her children's lives to a peripheral one as a grandmother is presented with a tone of acceptance tinged with resignation.
  • The author's body of work indicates a focus on relatable life themes such as relationships, spirituality, life lessons, mental health, and the LGBTQ+ community, suggesting a commitment to exploring the human condition through various lenses.

The Waning of Authority

A Senryu Series — on Parenting and Aging

Image by congerdesign from Pixabay

I know things you don’t hold dominion over life I am a mother

thrice birthed from my womb these yougins will know respect I am their mother

well educated their roots will run deep with me I am still mother

children of their own they have only time for them no longer mother

I know things you don’t no one listens to me now I, just grandmother

©2015–2020 Lori Carlson. All Rights Reserved.

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Lori Carlson writes poetry, fiction, articles and personal essays. Most of her topics are centered around Relationships, Spirituality, Life Lessons, Mental Health, and the LGBTQ+ community. She currently writes for Loose Words,💜The POM💜 , Illumination, The Friday Fix, House of Haiku, Know Thyself, Heal Thyself, The Purple Pen, Blue Insights, a Few Words, Tempest in Under 1000 and The Weekly Knob.

Senryu
Poetry
Writing
Parenting
Life Lessons
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