Poetry For The Un-Poetic

Body aches from over extension
Repetition without remorse
Moments of apprehension
Self discipline a must

Lined against the mirrored walls
Reflections of pain

From Helen C. Downey's "Tears of Triumph"



This poem advocates a sombre feeling. This poem perfectly links to Chief's experience inside the ward. Every day he is forced through the same routine. He is forced to stare at himself and be constantly reminded that he is not good enough to be in the real world. Chief may be mentally disabled but, he is able to function as a human being. The nurse is the dictator of the ward; prescribing a daily dosage of abuse and repetition. No one dares question her ways, except for chief, though he doesn't express himself verbally. Throughout the book his views on the way the ward is run become apparent. His is just lined up day after day and forced to stare at his reflection; an image that inflicts horrific amounts of pain on his soul.

The entire poem "Tears of Triumph" can be read at: http://www.authorsden.com/visit/viewPoetry.asp?id=184859