The Legerdemain

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 Poets and Storytellers United 

Friday Writings #215

 For today’s optional prompt we are asked to write poetry or prose that explores one of Terry Pratchett’s quotes:

 “There was a light at the end of the tunnel, and it was a flamethrower.” 

For me, the quote brought to mind how things aren't always what they seem, and the various expressions that express this. 


All that glitters is not gold,

nor will you find that treasure

potted up and waiting

at the end of the rainbow.


Appearances are mere mirages,

mirrors and smoke.

Imperfect reflections,

misdirections

reflecting our imperfect selves.


You may travel the world

in search to find

an empty sack

full of empty promises.


The legerdemain’s bag of tricks.


©2026 Lisa Smith Nelson. All Rights Reserved  


Comments

  1. JimFebruary 20, 2026 at 11:47 AM

    This old planet is not entirely correct in our eyes but we didn't make it either.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Rosemary Nissen-WadeFebruary 20, 2026 at 2:41 PM

    Hmm, so it's either a flame thrower or a fizzle?

    ReplyDelete
  3. MarjaFebruary 20, 2026 at 6:54 PM

    Yes the world is full of trickery Its not always what it seems

    ReplyDelete
  4. J Cosmo NewberyFebruary 21, 2026 at 12:32 PM

    Much truth in this.

    ReplyDelete
  5. HelenFebruary 22, 2026 at 1:48 PM

    I love the truth, the energy, wisdom you poured into this poem.!!

    ReplyDelete
  6. SumandebrayFebruary 23, 2026 at 10:13 AM

    Great poem. But I still believe the world is slightly better

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LisaFebruary 23, 2026 at 11:41 AM

      The world perhaps, but by and large my country is a mess right now! Although I wasn't thinking of that when I wrote the poem.

      Delete

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