https://fivedotoh.com/2020/09/0

Today’s word is “lampoon.” which in the verb context means to publicly criticize (someone or something) by using ridicule, irony, or sarcasm. And as a noun is a speech or text lampooning someone or something.

It doesn’t have the word lampoon in the poem but it’s a perfect example of the definition. This is one of my published poems addressing verbal abuse.

If I wanted an Opinion

You’re finally home, your lover didn’t need you.
If I really wanted an opinion…
Or you couldn’t find another man to do?

Who asked you to speak, sit there!
If I really wanted an opinion…
I would have asked the kitchen chair.

Clothes don’t improve how ugly you are.
If I really wanted an opinion…
Where did you take my car?

Who asked you to speak, sit there!
If I really wanted an opinion…
I would have asked the kitchen chair.

I own the car, the house, everything!
If I really wanted an opinion…
I fucking own you, you’re nothing!

I can rip those slutty clothes right off you!
If I really wanted an opinion…
I own you, I can do anything I want to!

Who asked you to speak, sit there!
If I really wanted an opinion…
I would have asked the kitchen chair.

STOP!
I wasn’t with anyone!
I didn’t do anything!

If I really wanted an opinion…

John, my first husband was a very difficult man and my life was all about walking on eggshells. My lampooning moment came when I handed him divorce papers. My speech was a summation of my poem when he began yelling I simply said, “I didn’t ask for your opinion.”