CRASH

(December 16, 2022) * That violent, violating jolt.The shudder diminished too fast,As if a hand cupped the car to stifle it deadly still.The lighted interior went pitch in an instant.The Christmas carol was instantly obliterated by a tinkling of the glassThat was dropping away, our protection now projectiles.It was accompanied by a smash, as if … More CRASH

Planting In Mariupol, Iteration 1

I do not consider this version definitive. I began with this on my way to the definitive, 2nd iteration. * The woman sits in the dirt, Digging away in her pots Planting bulbs.  Others, older, sit on benches Within the confines of the courtyard. They are oblivious to her presence.  Each one stares at something Solely inside of themselves. The ghost … More Planting In Mariupol, Iteration 1

Woe

This is a poem about the human condition. It channels the ghost of Emily Dickinson. Unfortunately, this may well be my greatest poem, the one that lives on after I have passed. * Woeful be the misbegotten who have loved us in vain.  Wherever can they go? There is no time to ever think of … More Woe

The Missing Peace

I wanted to write a response to the masterpiece by Yeats, “The Wild Swans at Coole.” Nonetheless, my style owes more to Gerard Manley Hopkins. This is one of my best poems. * Dedicated to William Butler Yeats And For Alla Gallagher * My fourth retreat is a nest of old memories.  I search for … More The Missing Peace

Forever

Months have passed since your passing.  As I decide to write this poem, Through the window, I finally see A hummingbird sip from the nectar In Thumbelina’s cup, Wired to a tip of the grate.  A good omen, this! I am grateful. * * While the hospital was a hell for you, Hospice was not.  Nonetheless, Toward the … More Forever

Together

As I reached for a door, about to leave the ward, The words of his distress pierced my hearing, On their way to a stab of my heart.      “I can’t understand why       I can’t go home with you.” I turned to catch the look on his face. * I patiently reiterated the truths of our … More Together