Poetry by Richard Perry: The Quiet
This week’s poem comes in two versions. “The Quiet” was written in 2021 after a friend moved from her son’s home to an apartment. “The Quiet (2026)” is a fresh take, written just this week when Richard went to include the original in his new book, he found himself unsatisfied with it and decided to start over. Writer’s perogative, as he puts it. Read them side by side and see how five years - and a poet’s evolving eye - can reshape the same quiet moment.
The Quiet (2026)
Who do I talk to when there’s no one around;
When the quiet of my home becomes a deafening sound?
Gone are the loves and children I have known.
Leaving me and my memories here all alone
It’s part of life’s journey that I didn’t plan;
But what do I do? I don’t understand.
I have music and books, things I can do;
As I ask God for the strength to carry me through.
So, I sit quietly wondering if I’ll ever be fine
And I pick up a book and a nice glass of wine;
Patiently waiting for guidance from above.
Knowing I’m protected by God’s eternal love.
Now, here’s to the folks who live on their own;
There are things far worse than being alone.
The Quiet (2021)
Who do I talk to when there’s no one around;
When the quiet of my home becomes a deafening sound?
Just me and my memories here all alone;
Gone are the children and loves I have known.
It’s part of life’s journey that I didn’t plan;
But what do I do? I don’t understand.
There are my books, my music, and things I can do;
I ask God for the strength to carry me through.
But, often I wonder now what should I do?
Then I pick up a book and a nice glass of wine;
And silently think I know I’ll be fine. Now here’s to the folks who live on their own;
There are things far worse than being alone.
Pictured: Richard Perry at Half & Half Restaurant in Reading. Photo by Taylor Gregory.
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