One Moment Poem by Esther Leclerc
One Moment
Alive, full of life - -
laughing at jokes, I imagine,
grooving to the music on the radio
20 miles from his destination - -
Can't wait, can't wait to get home
But, he's dead now, finally lying,
spread-eagled on the road
not yet cold
And all I see are old black shoes,
shoes pointing my way
and a blanket-covered body
(so small... so young)
as our car, lavish with life, glides by
I've never seen a fresh-dead person
Never seen someone whose
last moment in life, first in death
caused so much confusion
(why are we not moving?)
anger (WHY are we still not moving? !)
then, bitter tears for the loss
(Oh, God......)
Rescue workers wandered alone,
foiled, forlorn, unfulfilled in the mission
to quicken the dead
He was alive, so alive, only
moments ago... like you, like me
full of plans, full of life, full of self - -
empty now, dead body on the road
Does he know that it only took a moment? ...
(4.18.06 - On the long drive to Disney World, of all places. So very sad.)
A very debateable subject, but I really enjoyed the kind thoughts for another here Esther, thankyou, A brilliantly described poem, Thankyou so much love Duncan
Life is so fragile. I often think about this, how it can all end so quickly (in one moment) ... and how we so often take it for granted. Excellent write! Brian
This is...has left me lost for words, lost in that moment of what you describe. But I like it, Moyax
Esther, Well said, ... to be within moments of someone losing theirs, can and most likely, will change your own life forever!
Esther, This is a fine poem, conveying feelings of both shock and compassion. And yet, isn't that the poet's job? To clarify, the explain, to synthesize the tragedies and ecstacies of life? I particularly liked your words 'fresh-dead person' and your description of the reaction of those for whom the incident was nothing more than a nuisance.. What a waste! love, Allie
So tragic it takes moment, a blink of the eye, from life to death. You tell the story so movingly, showing you own concern and compassion Thanks for sharing, John
Well-relayed, Esther. And thanks for your comment on my poem earlier. Love, Gina.
very true. you are so a good poet. don't discount yourself. -Lydia,13 :)
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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12/6/2025 10:35:06 PM # 1.0.0
yes your life can change in a split second esther, I know believe me, I know! Dave xxx