Platitudes

Written for "A Poetry Show" where the featured poet is Sylvia Plath (broadcast 10 May 2014). Initially.

Platitudes


   Something will turn up; it’s later than you think.
   You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink.
 – Look on the bright side, it’s darkest ’fore the dawn.
   Vultures are circling. ‘Doesn’t know he’s born.
   It could – be – worse; they are that way at sea,
   At least the pain is over. It wasn’t meant to be.
   Patience is a virtue; all comes to he who waits.
   Let it all slide off your back. At least you’ve got some mates.
   A dime a dozen; all the same; seen one, you’ve seen them all.
   Tomorrow is another day. Give thanks for mercies small.
   His bark is far worse than his bite. Let sleeping dogs lie still.
   Practice makes things perfect, though no-one’s got that skill.
   Others go through this each day; don’t think that you’re alone.
   Ev’ry cloud’s a silver lining. Don’t fear the unknown.
   Maybe your heart’s not in the task. These things are heaven-sent.
   Show gratitude? Each platitude: no help, but most well-meant.