A Transient Conceit

• Jemimah Thompson, Grade 10, Proserpine State High School
• Poetry
• 2010

1st in the 'Something With Bite 2010' competition

Up condescending mountains, we beat triumphant paths
But spiteful ice and jealous snow will see our prints depart.
On lonely desert’s empty plains, our weary roads will fade
No company can pierce its heart, for warmth has not a blade.
Secluded creeks we see as pure, yet here we rinse off grime
Fortunate for us, it is, such rivers run with time.
In selfishness, mistaken pride, we pick each blossom sweet
But hence new buds are bursting forth, as petals plucked retreat.
In sanctuaries of ancient trees, our fingers’ acrid marks
Will wash away in coming rain, or burn in showers of sparks.
By towers of glass, we walk below a gray and tortured sky
Obscenities and poisons are the footprints of our lives
I know you feel the same as I, neath smiles so ill-begotten:
‘If this is where my feet have trodden
I’d rather be forgotten.