Their Crown of Thorns

Summary

"Their Crown of Thorns" is a free verse poem by James G Brennan, responding to the "Thunderclouds" prompt for National Poetry Month, reflecting on personal guilt and the crucifixion metaphor.

Abstract

The poem "Their Crown of Thorns" by James G Brennan is a poignant free verse piece that serves as a response to the "Thunderclouds" prompt for Literary Impulse's National Poetry Month event in 2021. The poem delves into themes of guilt and self-inflicted suffering, drawing a parallel between the author's personal experience and the biblical story of Jesus' crucifixion, particularly on Good Friday. The imagery of a crown of thorns symbolizes the pain the subject wears, while the community's efforts to help are met with scorn. The poem also acknowledges the confusion caused by the author's haste in submitting the piece without proper context and expresses gratitude to the Literary Impulse platform for providing a space for his words.

Opinions

The author, James G Brennan, conveys a deep sense of guilt and regret, comparing the subject's emotional turmoil to the suffering of Christ.
There is a palpable sense of helplessness and frustration from those around the subject, who are trying to provide support but are met with rejection.
The poem reflects on the act of self-forgiveness and the need for it, as the subject is depicted praying for forgiveness from those they feel they have let down.
The author acknowledges a mistake in the submission process, showing humility and a commitment to clarity for the readers.
There is an expression of gratitude towards Literary Impulse and its team for supporting and publishing the author's work.
The poem is also a call to other writers to participate in the National Poetry Month event and respond to the prompts provided.

Free verse response to thunderclouds

Guiltridden you wore your pain like a crown of thorns, lashing yourself to make the torment go away.

Turning down our help we tried to mop your scorn, you crucify yourself while your skies turn grey.

Praying for forgiveness from those you let down, we pray in tears of blood before your tomb while we drown.

For the too many who have fallen.

This piece is in response to Literary Impulse (Shabd Aaweg) National Poetry month day 2 “Thunderclouds”. It’s actually Thunder clouds here on Good Friday afternoon, at 3 pm! Spooky.

Do excuse me let me clarify for those unfamiliar with the story of Good Friday. At 3 pm christ died on the cross, “the land was covered in darkness”, “Thunderclouds”

Unfortunately, I submitted this piece in haste without the mention of “Thunderclouds” maybe leaving some confused as to what this piece references; Apologies.

Thank you as always, all at Literary Impulse (Shabd Aaweg) for giving my words a platform.🙏🙏🙏🙏 Thank you all for reading and your precious time. Always. J. 🙏✨☘

POETRY

Their Crown of Thorns

Free verse response to thunderclouds

National Poetry Month Event

prompts for The National Poetry Month 2021 with Shabd Aaweg Review