The Picture, the Poem & the Pie.

An Original Poetry Collection by Mercedes Dawson

This collection explores themes of misunderstanding, healing, growth, and vulnerability, with a touch of humour. Feel free to interpret my poetry in your own way - art is subjective and is meant to be experienced, not defined.

The Picture

I sketched a detailed drawing today!

I tried to make it easy - it was just in black, and grey-

Then I tried to make you laugh, but you thought I was depressed.

So forgive me if the picture isn't perfect, I drew it when I was stressed.

Desiring a connection that would be mutually emulated,

But met with thoughts that my feelings should be speculated

So if I look a little glum, and I tell you that I'm fine,

It's because when I sketched a detailed drawing, you still coloured outside my lines.

The Poem

Have you ever written a poem, and told it your rawest hidden thoughts?

Have you ever made a journal entry, and how thick was the plot?

Have you ever written down a thought so feral, it would send the public into a quarrel?

Then time goes on, and you forget the phrases, the paper, the pen…

And one day, you go back to reflect again.

Rereading and embarrassed at what was once your deepest feelings,

I guess this is growth.

Congratulations on healing!

The Pie

It was at high tea when I had an ephiphany

Countless hours I spent crafting my pie,

And even so, I was hesistant for others to try

Why wouldn’t I be?

I have everything to lose,

But then I remembered, everyone was bringing their pies too

They were so elegantly dressed to the nines,

I was feeling like a mess, but looking fine

Everyone had a turn trying their pies,

But then it was their turn to try my mine

I prepared for impact, and I pulled mine out

Slices were served, pie down the throat

I held my breath, then sighed in relief

when Betsy beside me chanted “this is delicious, good grief!”

And so, it was at high tea when I had an epiphany,

That to be set free I must share a slice of me.

Question: What kind of pie do you think I baked? Or if you were baking one, what kind would it be? Leave your answer in the comment section below!!