“I am Perdu.” -a poem for the “invisible.”

Today I thought I’d try my hand at a sonnet. The poem is a representation of anyone who’s ever felt, or feels invisible.

The photo is Charlie, my cat, and I think it’s a good visual representation for this piece. I often wonder what he’s thinking as he stares out the window, while sitting on his trunk.

I am perdu, just a phantom’s shadow  

Seen, then unseen, a hologram trickster   

Undead, yet vaporous, I fail to show  

My glacial gait seen as a wing’s flicker

My existence discounted as folk lore

A pair of wraith’s ears captures your gossip

Addled brain yoke, stroked by a broken oar

Seeks validation and relationship

My dim reflection is a lonely “friend”

A mocking mimicker spewing brickbat  

Multiplied by shattered glass, in the end

Translucent, I blend with all that is matte

Just a speck of dirt, or a stain on the wall

I am perdu, the worst fate that can befall

Published by

markbierman

Born and raised on a farm near Brockville, Ontario, Mark Bierman's childhood consisted of chores, riding horses, snowmobile races across open fields, fishing trips to a local lake, and many other outdoor adventures. He was also an avid reader of both fiction and non. Transitioning towards adulthood also meant moving from the farm and into large urban areas that introduced this country boy to life in the big cities. After a short stint as a private investigator, he moved into the role of Correctional Officer, working at both Millhaven Institution and Kingston Penitentiary, until it closed.

44 thoughts on ““I am Perdu.” -a poem for the “invisible.””

  4. A very fascinating subject in a sonnet. You’re giving some attention on animals which I think they deserve to be noticed. Cats are lovely pets and I enjoyed reading your poem about Perdu. I also have written about cats that strayed at home. We fed them until one died. I felt sorry for the feline that lost her life. Great poem you had. Stay safe !

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The individual is in a battle with him/herself and constantly mocks themselves. Brickbat is a very old term, so I wasn’t sure if it would be understood or not. Thanks for stopping by, Jacqui. Have a great weekend. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Liz,
      I think there may be more than one meaning for ‘perdu’. In this case it means ‘hidden’ or ‘concealed’. The poem is based on someone who feels invisible, unnoticed, like they don’t matter. They are watching the world go by and feel as if they might as well not exist. They are in a battle with themselves and constantly denigrate themselves. Thanks for stopping by and I hope this answers your question.

      Liked by 3 people

  19. Good sonnet and well written.thought provoking.

    Perhaps we may all feel invisible sometimes. But that too is an illusion.
    Our Heavenly Father always see.🙂 just as He knows a sparrows fall.
    — Mom
    Love the picture and the cat. Yes, I too have wondered what cats are thinking about when they stare. 😁

    Sent from my iPad

    Liked by 2 people

Comments are closed.