In night’s well, the moon
greets dawn, and drowns
in poems that ebb
and flow,
a quiet heartbeat.
From the depths of dreams,
the muffled tick
of a clock
anchors me to morning.
Your waking smile is silent
yet I hear its message
clearly.
Kim M. Russell 23rd March 2026
It’s Monday and, at the dVerse Poets Pub, we are writing silent quadrilles, poems of exactly 44 words, with Lillian.
Lillian says: ‘Today we are faced with a 24/7 news cycle. Our cell phones ding with updates and we sometimes face folks who shoot from the hip with their words, rather than taking the time to listen, analyze and then respond. We’ve all heard the phrase “silence is golden”. But for some who lose a spouse or partner or child – someone close to them – silence can be deafening.’
Lillian has shared a poem, ‘Silence’ by Billy Collins, which really spoke to me.
The word she would like us to include in our quadrilles today is ‘silence’.
writing in north norfolk 
A deft touch in these scenarios, Kim. “Night’s well” is an excellent term. Will have to remember that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Lisa!
LikeLike
Ahh yes a waking smile….thats all we need to begin the day (with all its noise) Prefectly written and executed! Love it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Cara!
LikeLike
Just so beautiful ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Lisa.
LikeLike
Glad you enjoyed Billy Collins’ poem! I especially love the first stanza. And oh yes….after being married for 56 years now….I can attest to the quite happiness of waking to my spouse next to me, and seeing his silent smile ( or hearing his gentle snore!).
LikeLiked by 1 person
poetry written with the gentlest touch – a joy to read especially the unspoken message
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Laura.
LikeLike
So much can be said in silence.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, that’s true.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Nothing says anything more clearly than a silent smile, eh?
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh yes, Ron!
LikeLike
oh, how lovely is that silent message!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Candy!
LikeLike
Beautifully written, Kim. I love the ending!
LikeLike