The Paper Clip's Lament

The Paper Clip’s Lament


The colored paper clips stare out
from their plastic prison.
They long to be used again,
and their rainbow colors beckon.

They are almost obsolete
since the stapler took their place.
They envy his active life,
and feel that their world
is shrinking.

A few of them have managed to escape
inside a drawer,
or behind a desk.

A couple of them
have even achieved their dream
and are blissfully serving their purpose.

But most bemoan their fate,
and gaze at the garbage can.
It is the death they all fear
and they know it is their destiny.



Written for "The Humorous Poetry Contest"