This poem is about sexual harassment. True story. Sick of it. So what do I do, write poetry. To the women, and men, who have to deal with this all the time, I’m sorry. I understand. Each line is 9 syllables.

Stop!

I said “Stop”, but you didn’t listen.
I said “Stop”, but you refused to hear.
You kept groping me with intention.
You kept nibbling me upon my ear.

I said “Stop” but you don’t respect me.
You think it’s fun when I push away.
A hug I’d be ok with you see.
But my mind you always try to sway.

I do not want sex, and you know it.
But you hope with pressure I’ll cave in.
The kids are upset and they show it.
Even they know your sly sheepish grin.

My daughter tries to tell you “Listen”.
My son comments about disrespect.
They have opinions with their vision,
Of how you treat me and your effect.

But you are stubborn and quite bullnecked.
I must owe you ‘cause I’m a woman.
You’re entitled to the other sex.
I am not a man so I’m less than.

Life I don’t have the right to govern.
You see me as much less than you are.
For respect is all that my heart yearns.
Maybe if I wish upon a star.

You just couldn’t care to hear my plea.
I fear your anger should you listen.
Asking you to stop fails to help me.
I don’t know what else to do again.

I’ll seek an order for protection.
You will listen to another man.
You think I owe you my affection.
You push me more than anyone can.

You’re intent makes me shudder inside.
I want to shower but you follow.
I cannot escape this whelming tide.
I hold onto hope for tomorrow.

That you will see me as a human.
Deserving of respect and freedom.
But your mind just will not illumine.
You lack ability for wisdom.

It’s about control sought over me.
You disrespect and never listen.
No matter what you’ll never own me.
You can’t make me need you like the sun.

I once loved you but was mistaken.
You never loved me, t’was only lust.
My heart you tried and thought you’d taken.
By trying to own, you lost my trust.

So I ask you to stop with a frown.
I’ll continue to leave and withdraw.
‘Til you push me so much I break down.
And I take my matters to the law.

You think I am being dramatic.
But you have pushed me all of this way.
It is really needlessly tragic.
You just had to respect me today.


(c) Stephanie Blomquist 2025