I try to compose my face
when I see how gnarled you
have become with time--
must be forty years since
I dragged on your lithe limbs,
feet tucked, swinging wildly
in the neighbor's yard,
screaming with delight.
I try to push the thought
from my mind that this may
well be the last time we meet;
your green has gone gray,
skin knotted with sorrow,
wrinkles crease your brow,
mapping our mutual history.
I lean in close as if
you might whisper some last
bit of wisdom and comfort,
but your voice is
only creaking branches.
I furtively place a kiss
on your aging trunk and
walk away before anyone
can see that I'm crying.
Author notes
Inspired by the picture prompt of the willow tree
go to http://js119.spaces.live.com/photos/cns!837A0699F1AC5B70!149/
and memories of the willow tree in my next door neighbor's yard
A contest entry
- willow by james119.
600 points, ended August 11, 2008, 13 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest - WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR by Swan song.
1300 points, ended January 16, 29 entries
Honorable mention
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Comments and constructive criticism welcome.
Comments
1 - 12 of 12
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This was an absolute pleasure to read, what a wonderfully written poem with strong imagery.
mj.
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congratulations on the green thingy
way to go my Dear Bella -
I remember an old tree like that to! You brought back an old memory oh my!
It is hard to criticize such excellent work!!!!!
Beautiful!
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That's very sad when that happens. Well expressed piece. But I see from the notes that you are talking about a tree! It's still very sad.
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well done
a wonderful tale, love of all natural beatuy
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I remember reading this before It stayed with me. I so loved my trees growing up. This is exquisite you say so much in so few lines. I love this poem.
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Very nice take on the prompt. Excellent personification. Lovely "dragged on your lithe limbs" and "sorrow, wrinkles...mapping our mutual history". A touching read for anyone who has had a special tree that was a refuge and trusted friend.
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How extraordinary this is. Memories ...time passes so quickly.
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Oh this is really sad
You have written such a touching piece. It is really interesting how parts of a garden can hold so many memories from childhood.
A truly lovely piece
Gaylene
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such trees can hold wonderful memories
Thanks for this touching entry -
beautiful piece of nature and love... if only we all could feel like this at one time... we might appreciate better - or more... great piece...
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this is so beautiful.
truly, as ridiculous as it may sound, i almost cried.
well done!
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