"Money" - A Poetic Reflection on the Power and Illusion of Money

The poem wisely reminds us, however, that despite its many faces and its dominance in society, money cannot buy health, time, or true happiness. It closes with a poignant thought—if wealth alone becomes the measure of life, then love, relationships, and human values risk being forgotten.

"Money" - Poem by AM Noushad

"When I was jobless, I made my plea to my uncle:

“A rent-free room to start a tuition center.”

But he replied with a heart so stark,

“No money here means no talk.”

Being an educated, unemployed youth,

I struggled left and right to find an opening.

Bad luck… bad luck… everywhere a hard look,

All my attempts ended in vain.

Years passed, and I learned many lessons.

Everywhere and in every place, people talk about money.

I learned many lessons and faced hard fortunes.

Money has many names based on how it’s spent,

And its name keeps changing time and time, depending on the purpose.

When you give money at a temple, it’s called worship to God.

Paying for education in school, it’s called fees.

Pay for weddings, it’s known as bridal dowry.

Payment for a divorce becomes alimony or back charges.

Payment against a tragic death is called compensation.

When you pay for the poor, it’s called charity,

While payments to big organizations are termed donations.

Borrow money, and it’s simply a loan.

Depositing money in a bank, it’s called an investment.

When withdrawn, it’s labeled a borrowing spree,

With interest and compound terms to see.

Paying to political parties, it’s called a contribution.

Giving to kids, it’s pocket money, given with affection.

Paying to the daily newspaper, it’s a monthly subscription.

For orphanages, it’s support in dearth.

Pay fines for courts, or taxes for the state.

Payment for roads is called a toll that won’t abate.

Payment to laborers is called wages, and for the employed, it’s named salary.

Paying to a hotel bearer is called a tip.

At retirement, money is called a pension.

Unaccounted wealth turns into black money.

Severance pay comes when jobs aren’t sunny.

This cash, oh, with its myriad faces,

Is tied to life’s bonds in infinite places.

Money cannot provide better health,

Nor can it save you from death, or buy time itself.

Nevertheless, money is not the essence of happiness.

Yet, when wealth becomes the measure of all,

What of love and ties that stand tall?"

About the Author: AM Noushad is an Oil and Gas professional with a passion for poetry, drama, and acting. He has mastered the art of balancing professional excellence with his creative passion. As a poet, his words weave emotions into verses that heal, inspire, and linger long after they’re read. AM Noushad also delivers intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant motivational speeches to professionals, students, and creative circles, leaving audiences motivated to see challenges as opportunities and to live with purpose. Discover more of his poetry on his YouTube Channel, where he shares the spirit of his poems through voice and expression inspired by life and emotion.