Born Anew

A Poem by Tom Shaw

Dove with flaming wings (AI generated).

Let me give you some space
to play and grow,
for there's something magical
in watching you blossom,
and smile.

Let me sing you a lullaby
when the day is done,
for there's something mystical
in watching you sleep so deep
that you smile.

Yes, this life, it will
tear at your heartstrings,
but it's only to open you up
so you feel more love.
Yes you will cry in the flood
that the monsoon brings,
but it's only to wash out your eyes
so you see all of the doves
that rise from the rubble,
like a phoenix might do
when you've been born anew,
and born to be you.

Let me see to your wounds
when the bees have stung,
for there's something healing
when we feel each other’s warmth
and smile.

Let me show you the ropes
when you're all knotted up,
for there's something binding
when we untangle the mess
and smile.

Yes, this life, it will
tear at your heartstrings,
but it's only to open you up
so you feel more love.
Yes you will cry in the flood
that the monsoon brings,
but it's only to wash out your eyes
so you see all of the doves
that rise from the rubble,
like a phoenix might do
when you've been born anew,
and born to be you.

Let me wave you goodbye
as you leave my life,
for there's something freeing
when you fly forth from your cage 
and smile.

Born Anew - A Poem by Tom Shaw

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This poem comes from my first poetry book of the same name, “Born Anew”. It’s a particular favourite of mine, so much so that I named the book after it, and I chose to release it on Substack this week to mark the 3-month anniversary of the book’s release.

As such, I’d like to give away three signed copies to some of you lovely readers. Over the next few weeks (from 15th May to 29th May), anyone who shares this poem through Substack Notes or on social media will be entered into a random name draw (make sure to tag me so I see it!!). I’ll announce the winners in the newsletter on Sunday 2nd June and get copies out to the winners shortly after that.

If you’d like to learn more about the book, you can do so using the button below:

Otherwise, feel free to share this poem on social media using the image version below. It is also available as a framed print on my shop, which you can see by clicking the button below the image.

Music: Doctor Turtle - Lullaby for Democracy

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My Substack is the home for all my poems. Please consider subscribing to receive my latest works as they’re ready. Paid subscribers (members of the “Tribe”) get access to all sorts of extra goodies, like a free digital copy of my book, “Born Anew and Other Poems”, early access to my poems, and lots of exclusive content. Your help goes a long way!

Thank you for the support that you give. I wouldn’t be able to continue creating works like this and bringing them to you without it.

With gratitude,

Tom