All Poetry
Poetry
Navigator Nuisance ~ Sonnet
August 24, 2026
You say you’re only trying to guide me,
by nixing every road I want to take;
warn me before each turn I start to make,
pointing out highways of where I should be.
Mapping the route as if I cannot see,
insist my last turn has been a mistake.
You claim your concern is for my own sake,
but your advice is not asked for, you see?
I’ve learned lessons by traveling alone,
from exits I’ve missed and may miss again.
Your commands can’t compare to what I’ve known
by trusting the compass held in my brain.
So, keep your opinions; I’ll keep my own-
and until you’re asked, please stay in your lane.
Editor: Kolby Russell
About the Poet
Carl “Papa” Palmer of Old Mill Road in Ridgeway, Virginia, lives
in University Place, Washington. He is retired from the military
and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), enjoying life as “Papa”
to his descendants and being a Franciscan Hospice volunteer.
PAPA’s MOTTO: Long Weekends Forever!
Poetry awards include Sally-Sue Hughes Memorial Award, DAVA,
State Dept. of Florida Award, Veterans Voices T.H. Horton Award
and Gladys Feld Helzberg Award.
Leave a Comment