ALONE
Alone, a word of five simple letters blend,
In this vast world, it is my only friend,
To whom I share my deeds and misdeeds,
A partner in sufferings to borrow and lend.
If I take out “A”, there is only “lone”,
A stands for absence, its very bone.
A hollow where the heart can sense,
Silence stands with a heavy tone.
If I takeout “L”, it leaves only “a one”,
L stands for loneliness, when joy is gone.
A lingering shadow, a quiet moan,
where solitude whispers, we’re never alone.
If I take out “O”, it leaves “lone” and “a”,
O stands for owner, of my heart bay,
To gather it when it is broken by someone,
It is the best companion when it is gay.
If I take out “N”, what’s left is “aloe”,
N signifies the night, where shadows grow.
A cloak of darkness, where fears take flight,
Yet in its embrace, I find my fellow.
If I take out “E”, there’s just “alon”,
E refers eternal melodies on thorn,
These melodies softly chase my past,
And dance with me during back on.
By: R. Naheed.
This poem explores the word “alone” by breaking it down letter by letter and reflecting on its different meanings and associations:
- Alone as a Friend: Initially, “alone” is described as the speaker’s only friend in the vast world, someone to share both deeds and misdeeds, indicating a companion in solitude.
- Letter by Letter Analysis:
- “A”: When removed, it leaves “lone”, emphasizing absence and creating a hollow space filled with silence.
- “L”: Its absence leaves “a one”, symbolizing loneliness when joy departs, yet also suggesting that solitude whispers the truth that we are never truly alone.
- “O”: Without it, we have “lone” and “a”, highlighting ownership of the heart, a companion in both brokenness and happiness.
- “N”: Leaving “aloe”, representing the night and shadows, where fears may arise, yet in its embrace, finding solidarity with others.
- “E”: Without “E”, it becomes “alon”, alluding to eternal melodies that soften memories of the past and accompany the speaker through life’s journey.
Overall, the poem uses the word “alone” and its dissected forms to explore the complexities of solitude, companionship, and the different emotional landscapes that accompany it. Each letter removal reveals deeper layers of meaning, showcasing how the concept of being alone can be both isolating and comforting in various ways.
