Lonely Monument Poem by Sheela Toshili

Alone and stately stood the ageing matriarch
Burdened by the secrets of plots and broken hearts
her doors and French windows, once closed
now beckon all, to enter and discover

Ornate furniture for noble men and women to rest
And pass glances full of promise
dazzling chandeliers that lit the swaying dancers
mirrors that admired silken creatures in sparkling jewels


paintings of kings in gems and finery, once feared and revered
now lie on the floor gathering dust and holes
the halls that shone and resounded with laughter
now silently speak of timeless grime and neglect

as the visitors stomp around,
creaky steps groan under trampling feet
squeaky doors whine on being pushed
grumbling at their deep slumber disturbed

the matriarch, mortified at her disheveled state
look on helplessly at changing times,
yet welcome the familiar laughter and chatter
that fill her void, chasing away ghosts of loneliness