by John RC Potter
Definition: “Finding joy in someone’s misfortune”
This is a German word,
it holds a rhythmic resonance.
It has a pleasing sound,
yet points to a type of penance.
They meant me no lasting harm,
I believe this to be true.
The only damage they did,
it is clear, was to themselves.
There are those who find much joy
in the downfall of others.
Those who smile so knowingly
at someone’s deep misfortune.
Then I saw that red sunset,
burning bright in a photo:
it brought back such memories
of loves first found and then lost.
Sonnenuntergang! Sunset!
I love words in German,
they hold such an appeal for me.
A language of such strength:
But like a lock without a key.
The poem is from an unpublished manuscript, Walking in the Shadow of Someone’s Soul.
© John RC Potter
John RC Potter is an international educator from Canada who lives in Istanbul. He has experienced a revolution (Indonesia), air strikes (Israel), earthquakes (Turkey), boredom (UAE), and blinding snow blizzards (Canada), the last being the subject of his story, ‘Snowbound in the House of God’ (Memoirist). The author’s poems, stories, essays, articles, and reviews have been published in various magazines and journals. His story, ‘Ruth’s World’ was a Pushcart Prize nominee, and his poem, ‘Tomato Heart’ was nominated for the Best of the Net Award. The author’s gay-themed children’s picture book, The First Adventures of Walli and Magoo, is scheduled for publication.
Find out more on johnrcpotterauthor.com.
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