At a Neglected Mausoleum - Tetractys,
What noble family extolled its name,
enshrined in this once proud sepulchre?
Here each in turn lay as they came
in labelled, leaded caskets
until it came about
the line petered out.
A childless heir
perhaps was
last laid
here?
Now rust
invades the
guardian rails;
the briar rose bine
with untamed tentacles
impenetrably entwines
all vestige of identity.
Testament to the impermanence
of title, honour, rank or circumstance.
Hugh Wyles, October 30th.2006.
Author notes
This double tetractys is inspired by the memory of a prominent mausoleum in an ancient graveyard which I visited (near St Austell in Cornwall/UK) some years ago. The surrounding iron grille was eaten away by rust and broken in places, grass grew on the roof, while four briar rose plants, of great age, completely enveloped the structure with a thorny network of bines, defying close inspection or entry. Imposing in size, it dominated the surrounding lesser monuments and gravestones, some of which bore dates from over three hundred years ago.
Viewed in fading twilight, it left a lasting impression.
I dedicate this poem to Mary King who shares my love of wandering around old graveyards.
Written October 29th, 2006
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Dear Hugh,
Thank you for pointing me in the direction of this! I too enjoy exploring old cemeteries, which a lot of people think is rather strange. Certain places like that seem to me to hold a presence of the people themselves. How sad that this particular family died out, and no one was left take care of the upkeep.
There is a cemetery where many of my ancestors are buried, and one gravestone reminds me just slightly of what you've written. The engraving has weathered and is no longer readable, and it is overgrown with vines. However, each year on Memorial Day, there are always flowers left in front of it. It is heartening to know someone still remembers, whoever he or she may be.
Beautiful in both form and thought, this is a poem that I'm sure is very worthy of the site itself.
Much love,
~J. -
Hugh, This is a wonderfully haunting poem and the form fits the content so well.
Such beauty can be found in these forgotten places! You show that here along with the tones of death exists peace, art and wonder. Thank you for the dedication! -
Must be the last member of a family who lies there...
Built to be the last place to rest, but forgotten along the years, that is sad.
Excellent double tetractys dad, done with perfection
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Dear Hugh,
What an interesting poem to read first off this morning.
It must've been great exploring it and the old graves, trying to find a way in. It's a shame that it's been neglected and left to go to ruin, but I guess if there's no one left it would be left to go to ruin. I love exploring old cemetery's and reading what's on the tombstones, especially ones that are hundred's of years old, that would be awesome.
I love the style in which you have written your poem. A very interesting double tetractys which one day I must try.
Love Bea
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This is pure, pure gold. I rarely come across a poet online who is worth all the praise they receive - you are one of the few exceptions! I do so love reading your poetry; it is perfect for learning from
Cornwall is packed full of the sort of history which imprints itself upon your soul. King Donniert's Stone did much the same - you capture that sentiment through the concrete shape of the poem as much as through the language.
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