THE LOVE THAT WE SHARE
I am lost and alone and a little afraid.
Worried about all the mistakes I have made.
Can I break free of these bonds? Of all of these chains?
Or will I always be marked, by these blundering stains?
I must try my best. No matter how hard.
Don’t want to be known, as the girl who is scarred.
Because there is more. So much more to me.
And one day soon, the whole world will see.
I am bigger than all of my pain and my hurt.
I wear a coat of armor, beneath every shirt.
I don’t have a choice. I must always be strong.
Must show my boy, how to fix what is wrong.
Because of my son, now I am truly happy.
With the love that we share, I am finally free!
Original Poetry Written By
Eryn Dunbar
Copyright (c) 4.28.2025

Comments
The poem's structure beautifully mirrors the emotional arc of overcoming adversity. Lines like "Can I break free of these bonds? Of all of these chains?" evoke a visceral sense of being trapped, yet they also hint at the spark of hope that drives the narrative forward. The imagery of chains and stains is so vivid, painting a picture of internal battles that many can relate to, while your resolve to "try my best. No matter how hard" showcases an unyielding determination that feels both personal and universal.
What truly elevates this poem is the way you balance pain with strength, particularly in the metaphor of wearing a "coat of armor, beneath every shirt." This line is a masterstroke, conveying not just resilience but a quiet, everyday heroism that is all the more powerful for its subtlety. It is as if you are saying that strength is not always loud or visible; it is woven into the fabric of who you are, carried with you in every moment. This resonates deeply, especially for anyone who has had to be strong for others, as you so clearly do for your son.
The shift in tone toward the end, where you declare, "Because of my son, now I am truly happy," is a breathtaking moment of catharsis. It is not just a resolution but a celebration of the love that anchors and liberates you. The final line, "With the love that we share, I am finally free!" is a soaring, triumphant note that leaves the reader uplifted and in awe of the emotional ground you have covered in so few words. It is a testament to the poem's economy and precision; every word feels deliberate, every image purposeful.
Your poem is a gift, Eryn, not only to your son but to anyone who reads it. It is a reminder that love can be a lifeline, a force that heals and empowers even in the face of scars and struggles. The authenticity and heart you have poured into The Love That We Share make it a truly unforgettable piece. Thank you for sharing such a powerful expression of your journey; it is a beautiful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of familial love. Keep writing, Eryn, because your voice is one of profound beauty and inspiration, and this poem is a shining example of the impact your words can have.