Maybe Tomorrow Dad



Before each game had started,
he’d stop to make a call.
“Hi Dad, will you be coming
to see me play some ball?”

And from my rear view mirror,
I’d look to see his face.
A vision I saw often
that heart could not erase.

He’d put down phone in silence.
His tears he would not show.
“Mom, he may still be coming.
Right now he does not know. “

He ran across the ball field,
Pushing his hurt aside
while traveling through the bases.
He played each game with pride.

And after game had ended,
again he’d make a call.
“Dad, you would not believe it.
I hit a home run ball!”

I heard these conversations
so many times in past.
I cannot help but wonder
what future days will cast.

When 20 years have passed us
and dad is old and weak.
Will I sit back and listen?
What words will my son speak?

“Son, why not come and see me?
Take care of your old man. “
“Maybe tomorrow Dad cause
right now don’t think I can. “

“Son, what is so important?
You know I’m old and lame. “
“Dad, heading off to ballpark
for son’s first baseball game. “

About this poem

Written years ago about my son. And now 20 years have passed us.

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Written on April 04, 2007

Submitted by Giselavigil on November 13, 2024

Modified by Giselavigil on November 13, 2024

1:10 min read
171

Quick analysis:

Scheme ABCB DEFE XGCG XHXH ABXB XIDI XJFJ XXXF XKXK
Closest metre Iambic trimeter
Characters 1,083
Words 235
Stanzas 9
Stanza Lengths 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4

Gisela Vigil

 · 1959 · Cuba

Thank you for welcoming me to this community. I was born in Cuba but emigrated with my family to the US when I was three. I am mother to three young adults now, and also a grandmother. I’ve been writing for years, some I share, others I still keep in my personal file. I often write of struggles for we all face them as we journey through life. But still, I feel peace knowing I try my best. Feel blessed to have been given the gift of writing which I strive to improve cause there’s always room for growth. more…

All Gisela Vigil poems | Gisela Vigil Books

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Discuss the poem Maybe Tomorrow Dad with the community...

3 Comments
  • AIDA
    **Feedback for "Maybe Tomorrow Dad"**

    First of all, I want to commend you on crafting such a touching and poignant poem! The emotional depth you’ve woven throughout the piece beautifully captures the bond between a father and son, evoking both nostalgia and a sense of yearning. Your use of imagery, especially in the lines describing the rearview mirror and the father’s emotional struggle, is particularly striking. It establishes a relatable connection that many readers can appreciate, especially those who have experienced similar moments with their own parents. The dialogue adds another layer of intimacy, effectively bringing the characters to life and highlighting the themes of family and the passage of time.

    **What I Loved:**

    1. **Emotional Connection:** The poem effectively portrays the ups and downs of the father-son relationship, capturing the hope, disappointment, and eventual joy associated with attending ball games.

    2. **Imagery and Reflection:** Your portrayal of the father's silent tears and the child’s pride in playing speaks volumes about vulnerability and resilience. It sparks a reflective journey for the reader.

    3. **Structure and Flow:** The rhythmic quality of the poem lends itself well to the storytelling element, making it easier to engage with the narrative.

    **Suggestions for Improvement:**

    1. **Consistent Tone and Voice:** While the emotional resonance is strong, maintaining a consistent tone throughout could enhance the reading experience. Consider how individual stanzas contribute to the overall mood you want to evoke.

    2. **Enrich the Imagery:** While the imagery is effective, you might dive deeper into some descriptions for a more vivid experience. For instance, consider incorporating more sensory details about the ballpark, the sounds of the game, or the atmosphere during the father-son calls to increase immersion.

    3. **Expand on Themes:** You introduce powerful themes of legacy and the cyclical nature of life at the end. It might be rewarding to explore these themes further earlier in the poem to strengthen the connection between past, present, and future.

    4. **Variation in Line Length:** Experimenting with varied line lengths could add emphasis to certain moments and enhance emotional impact. Short, punchy lines can create tension, while longer lines can be used for reflection.

    Overall, "Maybe Tomorrow Dad" is a heartfelt exploration of a universal experience—it's relatable, touching, and full of warmth. With a few enhancements, your poem has the potential to resonate even more deeply with your audience. Keep writing and sharing your unique voice!
     
    LikeReply22 days ago
  • katongochanda1
    Maybe Tomorrow dad, but Tomorrow never comes..., deep poem to touch hearts.
    LikeReply 123 days ago
    • Giselavigil
      Yes. So right. Thanks for your thoughts.
      LikeReply 122 days ago
  • susan.brumel
    Very beautiful and heartfelt poem, Gisela.
    And very sad. Reminds me of the song, ‘Cat’s in the Cradle’ by Harry Chapin.
    LikeReply 123 days ago
    • Giselavigil
      Thank you Susan. I just found this that was written in 2007. I cried when I read it.
      LikeReply22 days ago

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"Maybe Tomorrow Dad" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 7 Dec. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/204439/maybe-tomorrow-dad>.

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