At life's threshold, light and shadow meet,
Yesterdays, todays, and tomorrows, a delicate beat.
Each moment a spark, a fleeting glimpse,
A fragment of eternity, where past and future kiss.
Yesterdays, a whispered promise, a memory kept,
A whispered wisdom, in the silence, softly slept.
The echoes of what was, they shape our core,
Like weathered stone, our hearts forevermore.
The shadows of yesterday, they whisper low,
"Learn from the past, and let your spirit grow."
Todays, a luminous threshold, where choices unfold,
A moment to step forward, young and old.
The present, a gift, a chance to create,
A time to dream, to leap, to participate.
The pulse of today, it beats with vibrant life,
A rhythm of now, where love and courage thrive.
Tomorrows, a horizon, radiant and wide,
A canvas of possibilities, where dreams reside.
The future, a mystery, yet to be revealed,
A chapter unwritten, waiting to be sealed.
The whispers of tomorrow, they call us near,
"Step into the unknown, and banish every fear."
At this luminous threshold, we weave our path,
A tapestry of moments, where choices birth.
Yesterdays inform, todays ignite,
Tomorrows inspire, and we take flight.
The threads of time, they intertwine,
A delicate balance, of heart and mind.
For in this weave of yesterdays, todays and tomorrows,
Lies the fabric of our destiny, our triumphs, and our sorrows.
Let yesterday's lessons guide your way,
Let today's actions shape a brighter day.
And as tomorrow's dawn breaks, be bold,
For at the luminous threshold, your story's being told.
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Poem’s Breakdown
Themes:
1. Time and its dimensions: The poem explores the interconnectedness of past (yesterdays), present (todays), and future (tomorrows), highlighting their impact on human experience.
2. Personal growth and transformation: The speaker emphasizes learning from the past, embracing the present, and stepping into the unknown future.
3. Empowerment and choice: The poem encourages readers to take control of their journey, making choices that shape their destiny.
Imagery and Symbolism:
1. Light and shadow: Represent the dualities of life, with light symbolizing hope, guidance, and understanding.
2. Threshold: Serves as a metaphor for the present moment, where choices are made and paths are chosen.
3. Tapestry: Represents the intricate weave of time, where threads of past, present, and future intersect.
4. Weathered stone: Symbolizes the resilience and strength gained from past experiences.
Poetic Devices:
1. Metaphorical language*l: Used to convey complex ideas and emotions, making the poem more engaging and thought-provoking.
2. Repetition: Emphasis on "yesterdays", "todays", and "tomorrows" creates a sense of rhythm, underscoring the interconnectedness of time.
3. Alliteration and assonance: Add musicality to the poem, enhancing its emotional impact.
Tone and Atmosphere:
1. Contemplative and reflective*: The speaker invites readers to introspect and consider their own journey.
2. Hopeful and encouraging: The poem's message is ultimately uplifting, urging readers to take action and shape their future.
Overall Impact:
"The Luminous Threshold" is a beautifully crafted poem that explores the human experience through the lens of time. Its rich imagery, metaphors, and themes encourage readers to reflect on their past, engage with the present, and step into the unknown future with courage and hope.
©Taofik Alabi
11 Feb., 2026