Poems from My Pandemic Pen

When the world shuts down, what do you do?

When New York City went into lockdown, Carol Ostrow stayed glued to her TV, afraid of the present and not knowing what the future would bring. But then one day, instead of calling a friend for a "normal" conversation, she picked up her pen and wrote a poem, finding a bit of humor during a dark time. She sent it to friends who appreciated the humor and wit and cheered her on.

She wrote one poem a day for at least eighteen weeks. Her wonderful, loyal friends would receive those she emailed, review the contents, and encourage her to write more. Writing became an obsession, almost therapy. Better than taking medication.

Hunkered down, hooked on a terrible Netflix series, feeling rather depressed without being able to escape her surroundings to enjoy the theatre, opera, ballet, restaurants and too afraid to venture out in the hall to empty her garbage, she put into rhyme her feelings. The results are humorous, witty, reflective, and sometimes poignant poems that cover the gamut from her expanding derriere, the art of folding toilet paper, reflections on ex-lovers, growing older, and the importance of friends.

A morning ritual

I have this talent with rare toilet paper,

Like a gift, a talent, a great dress maker.

I fold, I use, I fold again,

Over the bowl, you know.

No more space, 'tis time to throw,

I do let go,

Sometimes, it's true, I feel like fainting.

This paper, so rare as a Picasso painting.

Did you ever think we would come to this?

Forgive me now, I have to diss,

Goddamn, no paper, I have to piss.

Carol's poems are a reminder to all of us that "This too shall pass." Life does change, we can all adapt and get used to what the future has in store. We will be fine. Just keep loved ones, friends, and the things we hold most dear in perspective, and we will come out of this stronger and healthier than ever.