"Scales" by Jacob PfeifferRhyming Riddle Contest The Society June 27, 2018 Culture, Humor, Poetry, Poetry Contests, Riddles 177 Comments Winners announced here. Scroll down and read the comments section to enjoy all of the submissions. What has no subject one can tell, Yet tries to make it ring a bell? What makes you scratch your head and think, “How does this blather even link?” RULES: Write a rhyming riddle of any length and paste it in the comments section below with your name and area of residence, such as “John Smith, Colorado, USA.” Do not include the answer. Let people guess and then respond with the answer at your discretion. Two submissions per contestant. No submission fee. See our Riddles Section for inspiration. Nothing dirty, please. DEADLINE: July 31 midnight EST. Winners announced August 13. PRIZE: $100 JUDGE: Advisory Board members will judge (those who choose not to participate in judging may participate in the contest) NOTE TO READERS: If you enjoyed this poem or other content, please consider making a donation to the Society of Classical Poets. The Society of Classical Poets does not endorse any views expressed in individual poems or commentary. CODEC Stories:Share this:Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to print (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) 177 Responses Zachary Dilks June 27, 2018 Zachary Dilks Austin,Texas In truth, it’s plain to see You are, but rarely are we Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 This is a tough one, Zachary. My instinct is that the answer has to do with letters of the alphabet. Not sure which person is being referred to, the You (letter U) or the We (YO), but I’ll guess the latter. Reply Zachary Dilks June 27, 2018 Sorry, no. Caroline Bardwell June 28, 2018 Guessing again, Zachary… Alone? Reply Zachary Dilks June 28, 2018 It’s not alone Caroline Bardwell June 28, 2018 Sigh, I’m giving up! Zachary Dilks June 28, 2018 Never give up! Carmanie Bhatti July 1, 2018 Really appreciate your sense of humor. I would say you are referring to the “light” which is plain and it is rare to match any other thing with that. Reply Zachary Dilks July 1, 2018 Sorry, it’s not light. Try again though. I might give a hint though. The brevity makes it vague. Zachary Dilks July 16, 2018 Here’s a hint to get people guessing again, ignore the first line, it’s only meant to trip you up and to complete the rhyme. Reply T.D.Z. July 18, 2018 Maybe “singular”? Zachary Dilks July 19, 2018 Close, TDZ, but not on the money. Rohini Sunderam July 19, 2018 Alone Reply Zachary Dilks July 19, 2018 Also close, Rohini. You and TDZ are in the right neighborhood. Rohini Sunderam July 20, 2018 Okay one last attempt… solitary? Reply Zachary Dilks July 20, 2018 You’re dancing around it Rohini. You’re hitting synonyms. Ram July 21, 2018 lonely? Reply Zachary Dilks July 21, 2018 Sorry, Ram. You’re very close though. Reminds me of a song CAROLINE BARDWELL July 21, 2018 ONE Charlie Bauer July 21, 2018 The attitude: “I’m always right which means you rarely are?” Reply Zachary Dilks July 21, 2018 Sorry Charlie that’s incorrect. Caroline Bardwell July 21, 2018 ONE (not sure if you’d see the comment on the other person’s guess) Reply Zachary Dilks July 21, 2018 “One” is correct, Caroline! Caroline Bardwell July 21, 2018 FINALLY!!!!!!!!!! I needed the song hint. Alone, Solitary, Lonely…. “One is the Loneliest Number” 🙂 T.D.Z. July 22, 2018 Congratulations to Caroline! There is something very clever here. I was stuck on the idea of singular and plural, but the poem says “rarely are we”. “We” is never singular, but “rarely” the pronoun may refer to “one” person, as in the case of a monarch. Well done! Fun guessing! Reply Caroline Bardwell July 22, 2018 Thanks TDZ. Very challenging and I wouldn’t have gotten it without other people’s guesses leading me there. Rohini Sunderam July 22, 2018 Congratulations Caroline! Good one Zachary. It sure had us all guessing. Zachary Dilks July 22, 2018 Thanks all! I’m glad you all enjoyed it and it stumped you. TDZ, you summed it up perfectly. Jennifer Hinders June 27, 2018 We eat it hot, we eat it cold, And sometimes we eat it with mold. It’s hard, it’s soft and in between, If we’re asked to do this-it isn’t mean. The Brits say it for a bit of wind, Others talk about it when we grin. Bars, balls or giant wheels, Or someone who doesn’t act real Now that’s a lot of clues, you see So what is the answer to this riddle, please? Reply Zachary Dilks June 27, 2018 Cheese? Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Cute Jennifer. the answer is cheese or cheesy. Reply Jennifer Hinders June 27, 2018 Yes, it is. Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 It seems to me there’s something strong that weighs on you and me alike; a force that presses down along each surface that our feet will strike. This strange phenomenon appears as apples fall from autumn trees; it took Sir Isaac Newton years to realize it’s not the breeze. It’s like we’re drawn magnetically toward the center of the earth, so things can move kinetically beginning from the point of birth. Reply Monty June 27, 2018 That’s a classy piece, Caroline. Even without the prevailing riddle, it stands up as a strong, disciplined poem. But given that there IS also a riddle; well, it almost defies gravity. Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Yes Monty. It is rated E for Easy, but I’m pretty fond of the poem. I can’t say that I prepared this one for the contest though. I wrote it earlier this year and I have to say it is a crowd-pleaser for the open mic set. I sent it out for publication, but had no takers so thought it would be a fun contribution. The name for this sonnet in iambic tetrameter is “A Strange Phenomenon” and the final couplet goes like this: “To sum it up with brevity, the word they use is Gravity!” Jennifer Hinders June 27, 2018 Gravity? Reply Monty June 27, 2018 Yeah, gravity, Jen; as in the riddle contained in Caroline’s poem. Instead of just blurting out the answer; I thought it’d be more imaginative to instead slip it into a sentence. Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Exactly. Easy enough to confidently guess! Final couplet in the rhyme: “To sum it up with brevity, the word they use is Gravity!” Monty June 27, 2018 I must say, Caroline: I’m glad I first saw yer poem ‘without’ the final couplet . . which I feel to be superfluous. There are enough (practically giveaway) clues throughout the piece; the answer doesn’t need to be there. Don’t be enticed into the popularity (or some may say, monotony) of the sonnet. Like ya say: it IS an easy riddle to grasp, which I feel is rather fitting . . ‘cos one is thus able to concentrate their enjoyment on the poem, and not necessarily the riddle. The poem deserves that . . Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Thank you, Monty. Rohini Sunderam July 1, 2018 For the sake of brevity My answer: gravity Reply Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 Yes! BeverlyStock June 27, 2018 What do you loose when youstand up? And find when you sit and nap? Your lap! Reply J.E. Prittle July 1, 2018 Beverly, You included the answer in the question! 🙂 J.E. Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Entry #2 – This one I just crafted so I can claim I wrote it specifically for the challenge – less structured than #1 and the answer is not part of the poem. Also very easy and fun. I can be dark as night or somewhat fair; sometimes I’m barely even there. I can be curled or even pinned, easily tossed about by wind. I take on shapes of many sorts, in many lengths from long to short. To keep down the stress when you’re dressed to impress, I can be worn straight or pressed into plaits, repeatedly teased if the wearer’s so pleased or sculpted and sprayed to keep strays at bay. Some will flinch with every break, as if the entire world’s at stake, but knowing this much to be true – I can confidently promise you – that no one set is ever the same. So can you guess? What is my name? Reply Zachary Dilks June 27, 2018 Hair Reply Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Yep. Can’t wait to find out yours. Leonard Dabydeen June 27, 2018 He was an entrepreneur who chartered a ship To transport prospective immigrants across the Pacific. On arrival at his destination, he was very optimistic, But at the Landing Dock he was not given a permit. What is the name of this entrepreneur? This ship made a voyage from Hong Kong Across the Pacific Ocean over a week long; It reached its destination, but could not land, As the chartered owner did not have permission. What is the name of the ship? Leonard Dabydeen, Ontario, Canada Reply Amy Foreman July 2, 2018 Leonard, Could this be Gurdit Singh of the Komagata Maru, who was denied entrance into Canada in 1914? I had to check the history books on this one! Reply Amy Foreman June 27, 2018 Amy Foreman, Cascabel, Arizona Capricious, shifting to-and-fro, I’m sometimes fast and sometimes slow; I’ve been around since long ago, Yet I’m the one you cannot know. A little of me lulls to sleep, And when I stop, the sailors weep. Too strong, and things lie in a heap: The mess I make is never cheap. I’ll make you open windows wide, Then slam them shut and stay inside. On my account, will you decide To button up, or bare your hide. You’ll never see me with your eye, And yet you’ll know when I pass by, For rustling leaves will testify When through the arbor, soft, I fly. Reply Zachary Dilks June 28, 2018 I’m going with wind Reply Amy Foreman June 28, 2018 Bingo, Zachary. 🙂 Rohini July 2, 2018 I guessed wind too. Anyway I loved the poem. Reply Amy Foreman July 2, 2018 Thank you, Rohini! Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, ON June 28, 2018 Riddle #1 At first glance, I fill your heart with delight; For me, all the world’s men with surely fight! I make or break every nation And back every celebration. But, on my second note, I like secrets And what’s precious. My friends and I help to protect Everything from bike to diamond necklace. The company I keep is between two and four. Never less, never more. At first, I was scared of their teeth and claws, But now I do follow their woodland laws. – Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, Canada Reply Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, ON June 28, 2018 Riddle #1 At first glance, I fill your heart with delight; For me, all the world’s men will surely fight! I make or break every nation And back every celebration. But, on my second note, I like secrets And what’s precious. My friends and I help to protect Everything from bike to diamond necklace. The company I keep is between two and four. Never less, never more. At first, I was scared of their teeth and claws, But now I do follow their woodland laws. – Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, Canada *Repost as autocorrect changed a “will” to a “with”* Reply Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 Silver? Reply Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 I guess you’re looking for a group – precious metals? Dylan R.T. Gibbons, July 1, 2018 Hi Caroline, Each stanza has a separate riddle which contributes to the whole. As a hint, the answer to the first stanza is ‘gold’. Caroline Bardwell July 2, 2018 Goldilocks and the Three Bears?! Reply Dylan R.T. Gibbons, July 4, 2018 Correct! Good job, Caroline. Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Connor Rosemond, North Carolina, USA. What pounds and plods as if with toes, And utilizes stress? What’s out of favor, out of style, Yet we use, neverthless? Riddle #1. Difficulty: Easy! Reply Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Please excuse my typo in the final line; “neverthless” should be corrected to “nevertheless”. Reply J.E. Prittle June 30, 2018 Poetic metre? Reply Caroline Bardwell June 30, 2018 Good job J.E. Prittle! I think you nailed it. I had no idea but am slapping my forehead because it seems so obvious now – metrical feet – it makes absolute sense. Connor Rosemond July 1, 2018 Correct! Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Connor Rosemond, North Carolina, USA. This witty thinker wrought his mind Semantically and frantically! If language is a game confined, This verse flaunts his philosophy. Riddle #2. Difficulty: Hard! Reply Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 Witt-y thinker… Language game… clever! The answer is German philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, yes? Reply Connor Rosemond July 1, 2018 Spot on, Troy! He’s one of the more fascinating philosophers to me. JOSEPH B. QUINTANILLA June 29, 2018 Not gal… not guy… this I belie. On wind I fly (though no physique). You can’t see me. I’m absentee. Though I agree, my answers weak. I may reprise and minimize then neutralize the things you speak. Joe Quintanilla Mangilao, Guam, USA Reply Terence Marin August 6, 2018 An echo? Reply Joe Quintanilla August 6, 2018 Yes! Joseph B. Quintanilla July 1, 2018 What others rarely see it’s this you show to me be you a nobody or be of you a king. Confessional… close door… to me you then outpour… release what you deplore with kiss upon my ring. Don’t need your resume. Not lengthy is your stay. It’s best you not delay. Conclude with a wellspring. Joe Quintanilla Mangilao, Guam, USA Reply Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 The final two lines of the first stanza lead me to believe it is related to death, or perhaps vice. Is it “sin”? Reply Joe Quintanilla July 1, 2018 Not what I was going for, no. Hint? Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 Yes, hint please! Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 Honesty? Reply Joe Quintanilla July 1, 2018 It very well may be that I’m just not great at making riddles. Anyway… Hint: “Kiss” is not literal, while “ring” is literal butt maybe not the ring you’re thinking of. Joe Quintanilla July 1, 2018 Oh… sorry… no, “honesty” is honestly not what I was going for. Caroline Bardwell July 2, 2018 Is it a toilet? Reply Joe Quintanilla July 2, 2018 Ha! I was beginning to wonder if maybe my riddle skills needed as much work as my poetic skills. A toilet it is! (Does that break the rules of keeping it clean?) George Ross July 1, 2018 What has two score minus two lines, No intended scheme of rhymes, Naught but six seedlings for each ending, And a complex algorithm to guide one’s wending? Reply Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 A sestina Reply Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 My guess too. Is his riddle a sestina? Clever if so! Ram July 10, 2018 my guess is a sestina, too ! Reply Rajagopal Kaimal July 1, 2018 What runs fast and slow? And we all really do know It has no legs big or small; Some are short; some tall. Reply Joe Quintanilla July 1, 2018 Candle? Reply Remy Dambron July 1, 2018 car Reply Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 Clock arms? Reply Rohini July 5, 2018 I’m going with clock too. Reply wendy lee klenetsky July 1, 2018 The ____ is a little thing, it has no tail, it has no wing. It has no arms, it has no feet, it has no height; it’s quite petite. The ____is seen here and there; it can be seen most everywhere. It can be seen on leaves and trees, it can be seen on wind and breeze. The ____isn’t square or round, it makes no noise; no single sound. It makes its home wherever it’s at; on a cat, or on a mat. It makes its home upon a shelf with other things, or by itself. The ____isn’t what you think; it’s not a drink or the kitchen sink. It’s not the shadow on the silvery moon, it’s not the bottom of a red balloon. The ____’s not a girl or boy, it’s not a ball or any toy. It isn’t hers, it isn’t his, it’s not what you might think it is. The ____isn’t rocky or rough, it’s small enough and tall enough. It really is the proper size it’s really right before your eyes. But what IS IT; this____ here? Is it part of the atmosphere? I won’t tell you the answer now.. but I’m sure you’ll guess it, anyhow…… Reply Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 Dust? Reply wendy lee klenetsky July 1, 2018 You got it! But I hope it made you think a while.. Caroline Bardwell July 1, 2018 Air? Reply wendy lee klenetsky July 1, 2018 Almost but not quite.. C.M. Rivers July 1, 2018 Whether one of the wise or a deliberate fool, unless you are half of the rarest jewel you gradually come to understand things certainly won’t go as planned. It’s not a husband or a wife who’ll stay with you all of your life. Not any other person, realistically or actually. Neither dog, statistically, nor cat, factually, or lover, friend, bird, or turtle. Sorry – this might hurt a little. It is by no means a multiple-choice question, and may give you a headache, or indigestion. Whether diagnosed with perfect health or cancer, it’s true-or-false and you know the answer. Reply Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 “Neither dog, statistically, nor cat, factually” was very funny. I don’t know why, but my guess is leaning towards hope. Reply C.M. Rivers July 15, 2018 That is incorrect sir T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 True?! Reply T.D.Z. July 16, 2018 No, wait! It’s false! My thinking got turned around because the poem tells us what the answer is not. Reply Monching Llena July 1, 2018 What has love but does not adore? It has box but does not restore, It has no shape but fits in a ring, It’s a no dance but used to swing. Monching Llena Philippines Reply Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 I have two guesses and the first is locket. Reply Remy Dambron July 1, 2018 Due to my bipolar presence, I am both stormy and passive, With solar winds and lunar lures, my surf-face rarely placid. Fueling terrestrial climate, my wind and water are indispensable, Even if at times, their devastation’s indefensible. I’m a beautiful beast of nature, who only remains the same by changing, With my tempests, tides, and streams that I’m continually rearranging. My forces aren’t hormonal, they’re by-products of a shared environment, As a result the exchanges induced are passionate and violent. Reply Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 I want to say earth, but I feel like I’m wrong. But I’m still going with earth. Reply Caroline Bardwell July 2, 2018 The Moon? Reply T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 The tide? Reply Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 Zachary Dilks Austin, Texas That’s just like me to set down roots Wherever I go Is wherever I grow They’ll whisper me wishes and give the boot To carry their secrets wherever I blow Reply Rohini July 16, 2018 Dandelion Reply Zachary Dilks July 16, 2018 Rohini, that’s correct Sr. fatimanayaki.A.C July 2, 2018 When I look around the vast Creation It alerts the ‘Poet’ in me with Inspiration I am before the Creator in Profound Adoration Composing a song of a new Creation Reply Rohini Sunderam July 31, 2018 The hymn How great thou art Reply Terence Marin August 6, 2018 Poetry? Reply Gangadhar Sivaswamy July 2, 2018 Three poems submitted Reply Bruce E. Wren July 7, 2018 Poetic Riddle You can hear me in the canyons, But not upon the sea, The most likely of companions If you but cry to me. Bruce Wren, Chicago Reply Zachary Dilks July 7, 2018 Is it an echo? Reply Bruce Wren July 8, 2018 Got it. Ram July 10, 2018 Your right is my left, your left is my right, No one can see me when there is no light. When you cry, I cry, when you smile, I smile, Whatever you do, I do it in style! Your moves and actions, I capture with ease, Your words I can’t match, I can’t speak back please! I am not your lost twin, I am not your soulmate, How then your actions, I do emulate? You check with me to make sure you are fine, Who am I ? tell me, while there is sunshine! Reply Ram July 10, 2018 Just to add: I am Ram from Mumbai, India Reply Sinistermonkey73@aol.com July 10, 2018 Shadow Reply Ram N July 10, 2018 No it is not a shadow Zachary Dilks July 10, 2018 Shadow Reply Ram July 10, 2018 No it is not a shadow Caroline Bardwell July 10, 2018 reflection? Reply Ram N July 10, 2018 ah, yes! It is a mirror image Ram July 12, 2018 Riddle He was a mover, he was a shaker, He was a poet extraordinaire, His words have journeyed across the ages, And keep the readers turning the pages! Make a move, throw a weapon add an e If you don’t find his name, just call me! Name the movement of your head when saying “no”, What’s the weapon, while hunting, people throw? There! You have the name of the famous bard! Surely now, that wasn’t really hard? Ram, Mumbai, India Reply Rohini Sunderam July 12, 2018 Shakespeare Reply Ram N July 13, 2018 Yes, Rohini! You got it! Ram N July 13, 2018 Yes, Rohini! You got it! Reply Monty July 14, 2018 I’ve never been exactly sure How long I’ve been on this old earth; It sometimes seems it’s not much less Than Man himself has held tenure. I’ve took on many forms since birth To keep abreast with Man’s progress: And took on many colours since My nascent hue of bluey-black. I started life in feathers, which Necessitated many stints In pots and wells (both with a lack Of water). I then made the switch To fountains (which also contained No water). Since those days, my role Has changed to stay by Man employed; In recent times he’s even trained Me to work with jets. And a whole New role began when redeployed By Man (lest he makes a blunder) To render me invisible! I still retain my centuries-old Propensity to get under Man’s skin . . and it is risible The cash he’ll pay for this, I’m told. I’d like to think I’m here to stay, But Man’s existence seems to be Under threat. Well, if that’s the case, I wonder if there’ll come a day When Monkeys learn to work with me . . I could outlive the Human-Race! Monty Provence (France) Reply Ram N July 14, 2018 Pen? Reply Ram N July 14, 2018 Pen or ink? Reply Monty July 15, 2018 Well played, Ram . . it is ink. Monty July 15, 2018 There were clues aplenty: ‘feathers’ (quills, before pens) ink ‘wells’ ink ‘pots’ ‘fountain’ pens ink ‘jets’ ‘invisible’ ink ‘under Man’s skin’ (tatoos) Ram July 16, 2018 Thank you Monty, Yes the poem was peppered with enough clues.. but what I really liked was that they were carefully woven into the narrative! Caroline Bardwell July 14, 2018 Oil/petroleum Reply Lawal Jimoh July 14, 2018 The Riddle That Unites Us By Lawal Jimoh, LJ, L27 Like rain to land, bow to arrows; reflection, gives the sight in rows, appreciates colours you and I. What waves the sky the spectral hi? –Lawal Jimoh Ishola, “The Riddle That Unites Us” Lawal Jimoh, Lagos, NG Reply Monty July 14, 2018 Rainbow? Reply Lawal Jimoh July 15, 2018 Yes! Like RAIN to Land, BOW to Arrows… You are “Landarrows”. Perfectly beautiful. I think I have gotten you for Physics. You may check the link below my first quote bears awesome you: https://smartbankquotes.blogspot.com Lawal Jimoh July 14, 2018 Riddle Royal By Lawal Jimoh, LJ, L27 Outside: Still Reigning door, I knock. Inside: My answer pulls some tasks. Outside: Your question Winds or asks, Inside: Whose watch is Gin O’Clock? –Lawal Jimoh Ishola, “Riddle Royal” Lawal Jimoh, Lagos, Nigeria Reply T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 T.D.Z., New Jersey A creature, I, trained to keep, The time. I fly to make you weep, To cover you with mountain deep. A shell I bear, or two, or three, And since we’re counting, let me see…, Forever counting won’t count me! Reply T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 T.D.Z. New Jersey Who is the Lonely Heart? I caught a lonely heart one summer night, As he lit up for the lady in the wings, Beguiled,I admit, by his phosphorescent light, I succumbed to my weakness for hexapodal things. I trapped him, though tenderly, a prize in my glass, And demanded that his love-light flash for me, Alas, he demurred, his beloved in the grass, Alone could summon such technology. Sighing, I tipped the solemn fellow out, “Free at last!”, did he exclaim and fly away, Directly, post haste, to the beacon of his heart Without bidding me adieu with courtesy? Nay, he beamed kindly in my direction, Lest I feel keenly the sting of rejection. Reply Rohini July 16, 2018 A firefly Reply T.D.Z. July 16, 2018 Yes, that’s right! Thank you for reading my riddle. Yours looks much harder. Rohini July 16, 2018 What are you? Blue or brown or green or grey Are you a flower? Yea and nay! You do not teach You do not preach Yet, if I’m right You control the light Found on every creature’s face Especially the human race But, as a flower this is true Most often, you’ll be wearing blue Reply T.D.Z. July 18, 2018 Iris (the colored part of the eye)? Reply Rohini Sunderam July 19, 2018 Correct! John Kolyav July 18, 2018 Name the Snake and the Country By John Kolyav, Kottayam, India Into three parts cut a snake And the end pieces you take Invert the head, stick to the tail And get a country’s name-don’t fail! Reply Terence Marin August 6, 2018 Anaconda = Canada? Reply John Kolyav August 10, 2018 Yes! Perfect! Thank you very much dear Terence Marin. I was unable to check emails or website for a few days. Extremely sorry for the delay in responding. John Kolyav July 20, 2018 Who am I? John Kolyav, Kottayam, India I can change my color so oft And my body is very soft I have jet but not a rocket Ink I use though not a poet I have many buttons but no shirt And forcefully water I can squirt Reply Charlie Bauer July 21, 2018 A squid? Reply John Kolyav July 23, 2018 You are right, dear Charlie Bauer! Thank you. I meant octopus, however. Bernnard Austin July 20, 2018 Bernnard Austin, Lagos , Nigeria I loudly swear and I curse Did I leave them in my purse? Are they behind the sofa, under the bed? Oh there they are – on my head! Reply Rohini Sunderam July 20, 2018 Your spectacles Reply Charlie Bauer July 20, 2018 Man’s New Best Friend A man’s best friend has ceased to be a dog; When women wear it men’s minds start to fog. Reply John Kolyav August 2, 2018 I tried but couldn’t. Is it mirror? Reply Charlie Bauer August 2, 2018 Good guess John! It’s not a mirror; it’s worn, but not on the head. Darlene Franklin July 22, 2018 Start with plants from the marshes, But sold at stores in batches Used in Thanksgiving choices— Yams and jello cause comas— ‘Round fire on a branch blazes. Crackers, candy, who wants s’more? I’ll take four for lunches Reply Rohini Sunderam July 25, 2018 Marshmallow Reply Darlene Franklin July 25, 2018 Got it in one! I’ve been surprised at how many people were thrown off by the first line. Gerry Poster July 22, 2018 When used as I should, I hammer the ground; I’m hanged upside down if ever I’m found. What am I? Reply Irene July 25, 2018 RIDDLE#1 As the winters come to pass I ride, ride fast, often too fast to stop and think how the past has passsed in an eye’s blink. When the fruits ripen in May and the sun dries the clay and the trees shed their leaves I am like a boat that far away flees. I am a thief with a precious booty yet I am free to gaze at beauty. Only eternity can defy me, not you man, you can’t defy me. Irene Lupini, Italy Reply Irene July 25, 2018 *passed Reply Rohini Sunderam July 25, 2018 Time Reply Irene July 26, 2018 yep Irene July 25, 2018 RIDDLE#2 Peacock feathers’ beauty is eclipsed roses’ fragrant smell is not as sweet the nightingale’s songs are, if compared, discrete. Isn’t she who our soul has often kissed? A sharp sight and a keen mind will, aye, unveil the mystery enshrined. Irene Lupini, Italy Reply Rajagopal Kaimal July 26, 2018 1 More vigorously flies what as the winds increase a lot. But then goes not any further despite the displayed vigor? 2 Some folks lose it quite often; before you can count to ten. And it cannot ever be found Despite all the din and sound. Reply Ram N July 26, 2018 1 sail and, 2 temper? Reply James B. Nicola July 29, 2018 Generations: An Interactive Riddle (Who are “you” and “I”?) Your Great-Gran’ was a prisoner and spent Both day and night bound by a (double) chain. Flies on the wall would swear he never went Anywhere. But he didn’t need a plane To fly me to the farthest continent, Nor liberty to lead me down the lane. Your Gran’ (a wizard too) would, in the car, Lose all his magic powers, so I’d walk Around with him indoors. His repertoire Of words was not his own. That didn’t shock A single soul, though: Whose words ever are? And flies on walls would swear he loved to talk. Unchained but bound together, you and I Now take each other anywhere we care To go (and any way: We even fly On aeroplanes as one). With ample air There’s ample magic, too, for those who buy. Lately, though, it seems that everywhere We go together (even in the sky), Neither one of us is really there. Envoi If searching souls should find this riddle and not print it out, nor read it on a screen that’s wider than a palm (as I have planned for most), here’s one more hint to what I mean: As eyes peruse the problem now in hand, “I’s” also hold the answer, in between. (If even still souls do not understand: Solutions might be felt as well as seen.) Reply Rohini Sunderam July 31, 2018 Your cell/ Mobile phone Reply James B. August 7, 2018 Sounds right when you try this out with all the clues in the riddle–especially if you happen to be reading the text of the riddle in such a device! Thanks for checking in, Rhini Sunderam. –jbn Terence Marin August 7, 2018 Communication and understanding? Reply Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Wow, it’s about Him! He is a friend and foe that we all somehow know… He pre-dates our air, water and land yet at our feet He will lay His Sand… He has hands and yet never claps, He is awake and never naps… the answer He will tell as He never lies for He is the true father that never dies, people have tried to have Him freeze, waste and burn, He was the subject of the song “turn, turn, turn”… if you can ID this fair man please make haste and drop a dime, also know that this great equalizer’s name must rhyme with rhyme. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply Rohini July 31, 2018 Time! Reply Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Wow, it’s about Him! He’s a friend and a foe that we all somehow know… He pre-dates our air, water and land yet at our feet He will lay His Sand… He has hands and yet never claps, He’s awake and never naps… the answer He will tell as He never lies for He is the true father that never dies, people have tried to have Him freeze, waste and burn, He was the subject of the song “turn, turn, turn”… if you can ID this fair man please make haste and drop a dime, also know that this great equalizer’s name must rhyme with rhyme. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Who has Awaken the Children? It was one silent night without even a peep, the kids had said ‘goodnight,’ asked lord their souls to keep, for to God they would always kneel down and confide finding after their prayers their loud echoes had died then being tucked in and then sleeping tight and then all evening avoiding the bite. Then suddenly came the rain, striking in awe, the yawning awning. Drowning droplets, in pain, irritated and now irrigated. He took them by surprise when he opened the door; while over them he stood as he started to pour. And after all of his tears had fallen and dried… the cries vanquished the fears of the torment inside. Now with lightened souls and redefined roles from a calm so deep… all the children laid buried, in sleep. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply Ram July 31, 2018 My guess too is time Reply Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Captcha loading...In order to pass the CAPTCHA please enable JavaScript. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. Δ This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Zachary Dilks June 27, 2018 Zachary Dilks Austin,Texas In truth, it’s plain to see You are, but rarely are we Reply
Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 This is a tough one, Zachary. My instinct is that the answer has to do with letters of the alphabet. Not sure which person is being referred to, the You (letter U) or the We (YO), but I’ll guess the latter. Reply
Carmanie Bhatti July 1, 2018 Really appreciate your sense of humor. I would say you are referring to the “light” which is plain and it is rare to match any other thing with that. Reply
Zachary Dilks July 1, 2018 Sorry, it’s not light. Try again though. I might give a hint though. The brevity makes it vague.
Zachary Dilks July 16, 2018 Here’s a hint to get people guessing again, ignore the first line, it’s only meant to trip you up and to complete the rhyme. Reply
Caroline Bardwell July 21, 2018 ONE (not sure if you’d see the comment on the other person’s guess) Reply
Caroline Bardwell July 21, 2018 FINALLY!!!!!!!!!! I needed the song hint. Alone, Solitary, Lonely…. “One is the Loneliest Number” 🙂
T.D.Z. July 22, 2018 Congratulations to Caroline! There is something very clever here. I was stuck on the idea of singular and plural, but the poem says “rarely are we”. “We” is never singular, but “rarely” the pronoun may refer to “one” person, as in the case of a monarch. Well done! Fun guessing! Reply
Caroline Bardwell July 22, 2018 Thanks TDZ. Very challenging and I wouldn’t have gotten it without other people’s guesses leading me there.
Rohini Sunderam July 22, 2018 Congratulations Caroline! Good one Zachary. It sure had us all guessing.
Zachary Dilks July 22, 2018 Thanks all! I’m glad you all enjoyed it and it stumped you. TDZ, you summed it up perfectly.
Jennifer Hinders June 27, 2018 We eat it hot, we eat it cold, And sometimes we eat it with mold. It’s hard, it’s soft and in between, If we’re asked to do this-it isn’t mean. The Brits say it for a bit of wind, Others talk about it when we grin. Bars, balls or giant wheels, Or someone who doesn’t act real Now that’s a lot of clues, you see So what is the answer to this riddle, please? Reply
Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 It seems to me there’s something strong that weighs on you and me alike; a force that presses down along each surface that our feet will strike. This strange phenomenon appears as apples fall from autumn trees; it took Sir Isaac Newton years to realize it’s not the breeze. It’s like we’re drawn magnetically toward the center of the earth, so things can move kinetically beginning from the point of birth. Reply
Monty June 27, 2018 That’s a classy piece, Caroline. Even without the prevailing riddle, it stands up as a strong, disciplined poem. But given that there IS also a riddle; well, it almost defies gravity. Reply
Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Yes Monty. It is rated E for Easy, but I’m pretty fond of the poem. I can’t say that I prepared this one for the contest though. I wrote it earlier this year and I have to say it is a crowd-pleaser for the open mic set. I sent it out for publication, but had no takers so thought it would be a fun contribution. The name for this sonnet in iambic tetrameter is “A Strange Phenomenon” and the final couplet goes like this: “To sum it up with brevity, the word they use is Gravity!”
Monty June 27, 2018 Yeah, gravity, Jen; as in the riddle contained in Caroline’s poem. Instead of just blurting out the answer; I thought it’d be more imaginative to instead slip it into a sentence.
Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Exactly. Easy enough to confidently guess! Final couplet in the rhyme: “To sum it up with brevity, the word they use is Gravity!”
Monty June 27, 2018 I must say, Caroline: I’m glad I first saw yer poem ‘without’ the final couplet . . which I feel to be superfluous. There are enough (practically giveaway) clues throughout the piece; the answer doesn’t need to be there. Don’t be enticed into the popularity (or some may say, monotony) of the sonnet. Like ya say: it IS an easy riddle to grasp, which I feel is rather fitting . . ‘cos one is thus able to concentrate their enjoyment on the poem, and not necessarily the riddle. The poem deserves that . . Reply
BeverlyStock June 27, 2018 What do you loose when youstand up? And find when you sit and nap? Your lap! Reply
Caroline Bardwell June 27, 2018 Entry #2 – This one I just crafted so I can claim I wrote it specifically for the challenge – less structured than #1 and the answer is not part of the poem. Also very easy and fun. I can be dark as night or somewhat fair; sometimes I’m barely even there. I can be curled or even pinned, easily tossed about by wind. I take on shapes of many sorts, in many lengths from long to short. To keep down the stress when you’re dressed to impress, I can be worn straight or pressed into plaits, repeatedly teased if the wearer’s so pleased or sculpted and sprayed to keep strays at bay. Some will flinch with every break, as if the entire world’s at stake, but knowing this much to be true – I can confidently promise you – that no one set is ever the same. So can you guess? What is my name? Reply
Leonard Dabydeen June 27, 2018 He was an entrepreneur who chartered a ship To transport prospective immigrants across the Pacific. On arrival at his destination, he was very optimistic, But at the Landing Dock he was not given a permit. What is the name of this entrepreneur? This ship made a voyage from Hong Kong Across the Pacific Ocean over a week long; It reached its destination, but could not land, As the chartered owner did not have permission. What is the name of the ship? Leonard Dabydeen, Ontario, Canada Reply
Amy Foreman July 2, 2018 Leonard, Could this be Gurdit Singh of the Komagata Maru, who was denied entrance into Canada in 1914? I had to check the history books on this one! Reply
Amy Foreman June 27, 2018 Amy Foreman, Cascabel, Arizona Capricious, shifting to-and-fro, I’m sometimes fast and sometimes slow; I’ve been around since long ago, Yet I’m the one you cannot know. A little of me lulls to sleep, And when I stop, the sailors weep. Too strong, and things lie in a heap: The mess I make is never cheap. I’ll make you open windows wide, Then slam them shut and stay inside. On my account, will you decide To button up, or bare your hide. You’ll never see me with your eye, And yet you’ll know when I pass by, For rustling leaves will testify When through the arbor, soft, I fly. Reply
Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, ON June 28, 2018 Riddle #1 At first glance, I fill your heart with delight; For me, all the world’s men with surely fight! I make or break every nation And back every celebration. But, on my second note, I like secrets And what’s precious. My friends and I help to protect Everything from bike to diamond necklace. The company I keep is between two and four. Never less, never more. At first, I was scared of their teeth and claws, But now I do follow their woodland laws. – Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, Canada Reply
Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, ON June 28, 2018 Riddle #1 At first glance, I fill your heart with delight; For me, all the world’s men will surely fight! I make or break every nation And back every celebration. But, on my second note, I like secrets And what’s precious. My friends and I help to protect Everything from bike to diamond necklace. The company I keep is between two and four. Never less, never more. At first, I was scared of their teeth and claws, But now I do follow their woodland laws. – Dylan R.T. Gibbons, Toronto, Canada *Repost as autocorrect changed a “will” to a “with”* Reply
Dylan R.T. Gibbons, July 1, 2018 Hi Caroline, Each stanza has a separate riddle which contributes to the whole. As a hint, the answer to the first stanza is ‘gold’.
Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Connor Rosemond, North Carolina, USA. What pounds and plods as if with toes, And utilizes stress? What’s out of favor, out of style, Yet we use, neverthless? Riddle #1. Difficulty: Easy! Reply
Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Please excuse my typo in the final line; “neverthless” should be corrected to “nevertheless”. Reply
Caroline Bardwell June 30, 2018 Good job J.E. Prittle! I think you nailed it. I had no idea but am slapping my forehead because it seems so obvious now – metrical feet – it makes absolute sense.
Connor Rosemond June 28, 2018 Connor Rosemond, North Carolina, USA. This witty thinker wrought his mind Semantically and frantically! If language is a game confined, This verse flaunts his philosophy. Riddle #2. Difficulty: Hard! Reply
Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 Witt-y thinker… Language game… clever! The answer is German philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, yes? Reply
JOSEPH B. QUINTANILLA June 29, 2018 Not gal… not guy… this I belie. On wind I fly (though no physique). You can’t see me. I’m absentee. Though I agree, my answers weak. I may reprise and minimize then neutralize the things you speak. Joe Quintanilla Mangilao, Guam, USA Reply
Joseph B. Quintanilla July 1, 2018 What others rarely see it’s this you show to me be you a nobody or be of you a king. Confessional… close door… to me you then outpour… release what you deplore with kiss upon my ring. Don’t need your resume. Not lengthy is your stay. It’s best you not delay. Conclude with a wellspring. Joe Quintanilla Mangilao, Guam, USA Reply
Troy A. Xavier July 1, 2018 The final two lines of the first stanza lead me to believe it is related to death, or perhaps vice. Is it “sin”? Reply
Joe Quintanilla July 1, 2018 It very well may be that I’m just not great at making riddles. Anyway… Hint: “Kiss” is not literal, while “ring” is literal butt maybe not the ring you’re thinking of.
Joe Quintanilla July 2, 2018 Ha! I was beginning to wonder if maybe my riddle skills needed as much work as my poetic skills. A toilet it is! (Does that break the rules of keeping it clean?)
George Ross July 1, 2018 What has two score minus two lines, No intended scheme of rhymes, Naught but six seedlings for each ending, And a complex algorithm to guide one’s wending? Reply
Rajagopal Kaimal July 1, 2018 What runs fast and slow? And we all really do know It has no legs big or small; Some are short; some tall. Reply
wendy lee klenetsky July 1, 2018 The ____ is a little thing, it has no tail, it has no wing. It has no arms, it has no feet, it has no height; it’s quite petite. The ____is seen here and there; it can be seen most everywhere. It can be seen on leaves and trees, it can be seen on wind and breeze. The ____isn’t square or round, it makes no noise; no single sound. It makes its home wherever it’s at; on a cat, or on a mat. It makes its home upon a shelf with other things, or by itself. The ____isn’t what you think; it’s not a drink or the kitchen sink. It’s not the shadow on the silvery moon, it’s not the bottom of a red balloon. The ____’s not a girl or boy, it’s not a ball or any toy. It isn’t hers, it isn’t his, it’s not what you might think it is. The ____isn’t rocky or rough, it’s small enough and tall enough. It really is the proper size it’s really right before your eyes. But what IS IT; this____ here? Is it part of the atmosphere? I won’t tell you the answer now.. but I’m sure you’ll guess it, anyhow…… Reply
C.M. Rivers July 1, 2018 Whether one of the wise or a deliberate fool, unless you are half of the rarest jewel you gradually come to understand things certainly won’t go as planned. It’s not a husband or a wife who’ll stay with you all of your life. Not any other person, realistically or actually. Neither dog, statistically, nor cat, factually, or lover, friend, bird, or turtle. Sorry – this might hurt a little. It is by no means a multiple-choice question, and may give you a headache, or indigestion. Whether diagnosed with perfect health or cancer, it’s true-or-false and you know the answer. Reply
Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 “Neither dog, statistically, nor cat, factually” was very funny. I don’t know why, but my guess is leaning towards hope. Reply
T.D.Z. July 16, 2018 No, wait! It’s false! My thinking got turned around because the poem tells us what the answer is not. Reply
Monching Llena July 1, 2018 What has love but does not adore? It has box but does not restore, It has no shape but fits in a ring, It’s a no dance but used to swing. Monching Llena Philippines Reply
Remy Dambron July 1, 2018 Due to my bipolar presence, I am both stormy and passive, With solar winds and lunar lures, my surf-face rarely placid. Fueling terrestrial climate, my wind and water are indispensable, Even if at times, their devastation’s indefensible. I’m a beautiful beast of nature, who only remains the same by changing, With my tempests, tides, and streams that I’m continually rearranging. My forces aren’t hormonal, they’re by-products of a shared environment, As a result the exchanges induced are passionate and violent. Reply
Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 I want to say earth, but I feel like I’m wrong. But I’m still going with earth. Reply
Zachary Dilks July 2, 2018 Zachary Dilks Austin, Texas That’s just like me to set down roots Wherever I go Is wherever I grow They’ll whisper me wishes and give the boot To carry their secrets wherever I blow Reply
Sr. fatimanayaki.A.C July 2, 2018 When I look around the vast Creation It alerts the ‘Poet’ in me with Inspiration I am before the Creator in Profound Adoration Composing a song of a new Creation Reply
Bruce E. Wren July 7, 2018 Poetic Riddle You can hear me in the canyons, But not upon the sea, The most likely of companions If you but cry to me. Bruce Wren, Chicago Reply
Ram July 10, 2018 Your right is my left, your left is my right, No one can see me when there is no light. When you cry, I cry, when you smile, I smile, Whatever you do, I do it in style! Your moves and actions, I capture with ease, Your words I can’t match, I can’t speak back please! I am not your lost twin, I am not your soulmate, How then your actions, I do emulate? You check with me to make sure you are fine, Who am I ? tell me, while there is sunshine! Reply
Ram July 12, 2018 Riddle He was a mover, he was a shaker, He was a poet extraordinaire, His words have journeyed across the ages, And keep the readers turning the pages! Make a move, throw a weapon add an e If you don’t find his name, just call me! Name the movement of your head when saying “no”, What’s the weapon, while hunting, people throw? There! You have the name of the famous bard! Surely now, that wasn’t really hard? Ram, Mumbai, India Reply
Monty July 14, 2018 I’ve never been exactly sure How long I’ve been on this old earth; It sometimes seems it’s not much less Than Man himself has held tenure. I’ve took on many forms since birth To keep abreast with Man’s progress: And took on many colours since My nascent hue of bluey-black. I started life in feathers, which Necessitated many stints In pots and wells (both with a lack Of water). I then made the switch To fountains (which also contained No water). Since those days, my role Has changed to stay by Man employed; In recent times he’s even trained Me to work with jets. And a whole New role began when redeployed By Man (lest he makes a blunder) To render me invisible! I still retain my centuries-old Propensity to get under Man’s skin . . and it is risible The cash he’ll pay for this, I’m told. I’d like to think I’m here to stay, But Man’s existence seems to be Under threat. Well, if that’s the case, I wonder if there’ll come a day When Monkeys learn to work with me . . I could outlive the Human-Race! Monty Provence (France) Reply
Monty July 15, 2018 There were clues aplenty: ‘feathers’ (quills, before pens) ink ‘wells’ ink ‘pots’ ‘fountain’ pens ink ‘jets’ ‘invisible’ ink ‘under Man’s skin’ (tatoos)
Ram July 16, 2018 Thank you Monty, Yes the poem was peppered with enough clues.. but what I really liked was that they were carefully woven into the narrative!
Lawal Jimoh July 14, 2018 The Riddle That Unites Us By Lawal Jimoh, LJ, L27 Like rain to land, bow to arrows; reflection, gives the sight in rows, appreciates colours you and I. What waves the sky the spectral hi? –Lawal Jimoh Ishola, “The Riddle That Unites Us” Lawal Jimoh, Lagos, NG Reply
Lawal Jimoh July 15, 2018 Yes! Like RAIN to Land, BOW to Arrows… You are “Landarrows”. Perfectly beautiful. I think I have gotten you for Physics. You may check the link below my first quote bears awesome you: https://smartbankquotes.blogspot.com
Lawal Jimoh July 14, 2018 Riddle Royal By Lawal Jimoh, LJ, L27 Outside: Still Reigning door, I knock. Inside: My answer pulls some tasks. Outside: Your question Winds or asks, Inside: Whose watch is Gin O’Clock? –Lawal Jimoh Ishola, “Riddle Royal” Lawal Jimoh, Lagos, Nigeria Reply
T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 T.D.Z., New Jersey A creature, I, trained to keep, The time. I fly to make you weep, To cover you with mountain deep. A shell I bear, or two, or three, And since we’re counting, let me see…, Forever counting won’t count me! Reply
T.D.Z. July 15, 2018 T.D.Z. New Jersey Who is the Lonely Heart? I caught a lonely heart one summer night, As he lit up for the lady in the wings, Beguiled,I admit, by his phosphorescent light, I succumbed to my weakness for hexapodal things. I trapped him, though tenderly, a prize in my glass, And demanded that his love-light flash for me, Alas, he demurred, his beloved in the grass, Alone could summon such technology. Sighing, I tipped the solemn fellow out, “Free at last!”, did he exclaim and fly away, Directly, post haste, to the beacon of his heart Without bidding me adieu with courtesy? Nay, he beamed kindly in my direction, Lest I feel keenly the sting of rejection. Reply
Rohini July 16, 2018 What are you? Blue or brown or green or grey Are you a flower? Yea and nay! You do not teach You do not preach Yet, if I’m right You control the light Found on every creature’s face Especially the human race But, as a flower this is true Most often, you’ll be wearing blue Reply
John Kolyav July 18, 2018 Name the Snake and the Country By John Kolyav, Kottayam, India Into three parts cut a snake And the end pieces you take Invert the head, stick to the tail And get a country’s name-don’t fail! Reply
John Kolyav August 10, 2018 Yes! Perfect! Thank you very much dear Terence Marin. I was unable to check emails or website for a few days. Extremely sorry for the delay in responding.
John Kolyav July 20, 2018 Who am I? John Kolyav, Kottayam, India I can change my color so oft And my body is very soft I have jet but not a rocket Ink I use though not a poet I have many buttons but no shirt And forcefully water I can squirt Reply
Bernnard Austin July 20, 2018 Bernnard Austin, Lagos , Nigeria I loudly swear and I curse Did I leave them in my purse? Are they behind the sofa, under the bed? Oh there they are – on my head! Reply
Charlie Bauer July 20, 2018 Man’s New Best Friend A man’s best friend has ceased to be a dog; When women wear it men’s minds start to fog. Reply
Darlene Franklin July 22, 2018 Start with plants from the marshes, But sold at stores in batches Used in Thanksgiving choices— Yams and jello cause comas— ‘Round fire on a branch blazes. Crackers, candy, who wants s’more? I’ll take four for lunches Reply
Darlene Franklin July 25, 2018 Got it in one! I’ve been surprised at how many people were thrown off by the first line.
Gerry Poster July 22, 2018 When used as I should, I hammer the ground; I’m hanged upside down if ever I’m found. What am I? Reply
Irene July 25, 2018 RIDDLE#1 As the winters come to pass I ride, ride fast, often too fast to stop and think how the past has passsed in an eye’s blink. When the fruits ripen in May and the sun dries the clay and the trees shed their leaves I am like a boat that far away flees. I am a thief with a precious booty yet I am free to gaze at beauty. Only eternity can defy me, not you man, you can’t defy me. Irene Lupini, Italy Reply
Irene July 25, 2018 RIDDLE#2 Peacock feathers’ beauty is eclipsed roses’ fragrant smell is not as sweet the nightingale’s songs are, if compared, discrete. Isn’t she who our soul has often kissed? A sharp sight and a keen mind will, aye, unveil the mystery enshrined. Irene Lupini, Italy Reply
Rajagopal Kaimal July 26, 2018 1 More vigorously flies what as the winds increase a lot. But then goes not any further despite the displayed vigor? 2 Some folks lose it quite often; before you can count to ten. And it cannot ever be found Despite all the din and sound. Reply
James B. Nicola July 29, 2018 Generations: An Interactive Riddle (Who are “you” and “I”?) Your Great-Gran’ was a prisoner and spent Both day and night bound by a (double) chain. Flies on the wall would swear he never went Anywhere. But he didn’t need a plane To fly me to the farthest continent, Nor liberty to lead me down the lane. Your Gran’ (a wizard too) would, in the car, Lose all his magic powers, so I’d walk Around with him indoors. His repertoire Of words was not his own. That didn’t shock A single soul, though: Whose words ever are? And flies on walls would swear he loved to talk. Unchained but bound together, you and I Now take each other anywhere we care To go (and any way: We even fly On aeroplanes as one). With ample air There’s ample magic, too, for those who buy. Lately, though, it seems that everywhere We go together (even in the sky), Neither one of us is really there. Envoi If searching souls should find this riddle and not print it out, nor read it on a screen that’s wider than a palm (as I have planned for most), here’s one more hint to what I mean: As eyes peruse the problem now in hand, “I’s” also hold the answer, in between. (If even still souls do not understand: Solutions might be felt as well as seen.) Reply
James B. August 7, 2018 Sounds right when you try this out with all the clues in the riddle–especially if you happen to be reading the text of the riddle in such a device! Thanks for checking in, Rhini Sunderam. –jbn
Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Wow, it’s about Him! He is a friend and foe that we all somehow know… He pre-dates our air, water and land yet at our feet He will lay His Sand… He has hands and yet never claps, He is awake and never naps… the answer He will tell as He never lies for He is the true father that never dies, people have tried to have Him freeze, waste and burn, He was the subject of the song “turn, turn, turn”… if you can ID this fair man please make haste and drop a dime, also know that this great equalizer’s name must rhyme with rhyme. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply
Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Wow, it’s about Him! He’s a friend and a foe that we all somehow know… He pre-dates our air, water and land yet at our feet He will lay His Sand… He has hands and yet never claps, He’s awake and never naps… the answer He will tell as He never lies for He is the true father that never dies, people have tried to have Him freeze, waste and burn, He was the subject of the song “turn, turn, turn”… if you can ID this fair man please make haste and drop a dime, also know that this great equalizer’s name must rhyme with rhyme. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply
Alan Salé July 31, 2018 Who has Awaken the Children? It was one silent night without even a peep, the kids had said ‘goodnight,’ asked lord their souls to keep, for to God they would always kneel down and confide finding after their prayers their loud echoes had died then being tucked in and then sleeping tight and then all evening avoiding the bite. Then suddenly came the rain, striking in awe, the yawning awning. Drowning droplets, in pain, irritated and now irrigated. He took them by surprise when he opened the door; while over them he stood as he started to pour. And after all of his tears had fallen and dried… the cries vanquished the fears of the torment inside. Now with lightened souls and redefined roles from a calm so deep… all the children laid buried, in sleep. All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 1986-2018. Alan Salé PoetryByAlan.com Reply