Analysis of Null Apologies



“I’m sorry I did that, I have now changed my ways”
“Thank you for apologizing” is all I wish to say.
I know you’d rather hear me say “don’t worry, it’s okay.”
But I’ve told myself I’m definitely not going to lie today.

Truth is I don’t forgive you, your apology I won’t accept.
You’re not apologizing ‘cause you mean it, it’s ‘cause you feel in debt.
I’m tired of hearing vain sorry’s, just put the word to rest.
Saying things you don’t mean really ain’t the best.

Don’t tell me that you’re sorry, I know damn well you’re not.
You’re not sorry for what you did, you’re just sorry you got caught.
Don’t give me an apology, without giving it any thought.
Don’t shower me with gifts either, forgiveness can’t be bought.

~ Adwoa Osei-Akoto


Scheme XAAA BXCC DDXD B
Poetic Form
Metre 110111111111 1110100111111 1111011111011 1111110001101101 1111011101001101 1101001111111101 11011011110111 10111110101 1111110111111 111011111110111 1111010001101101 11011110010111 111
Closest metre Iambic octameter
Characters 827
Words 155
Sentences 12
Stanzas 4
Stanza Lengths 4, 4, 4, 1
Lines Amount 13
Letters per line (avg) 42
Words per line (avg) 10
Letters per stanza (avg) 137
Words per stanza (avg) 34

About this poem

The poem "Null Apologies" explores the idea of empty or insincere apologies in a way that will get you thinking. It examines the effects of deceptive or ineffective apologies that leave wounds open or fail to address underlying problems. The poet highlights the cycle of forged regret that is repeated, underscoring the futility of void words in easing emotional suffering. The poem raises concerns about the sincerity of these apologies and emphasizes the significance of true regret and responsibility. The poem criticizes superficial society conventions and underlines the need of real personal connections while exploring the concept of null apologies. It promotes reflection on the value of accepting responsibility for one's actions and the effectiveness of heartfelt apologies. 

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Written on July 22, 2022

Submitted by adwoaoosei.akoto on May 23, 2023

46 sec read
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Adwoa Ohenewaa Osei-Akoto

I’m a 16 year old African American born in Columbus, Ohio and raised in Accra, Ghana. more…

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