Table of ContentsTable of ContentsTable of ContentsTable of Contents

Section I.Thyme and The River......p. 1Section I.Thyme and The River......p. 1Section I.Thyme and The River......p. 1Section I.Thyme and The River......p. 1Reflections on the daily and annual cyclesReflections on the daily and annual cyclesReflections on the daily and annual cyclesReflections on the daily and annual cycles

Section II...Styx and Stones...p. 61Section II...Styx and Stones...p. 61Section II...Styx and Stones...p. 61Section II...Styx and Stones...p. 61Reflections on some of the more harsh realitiesReflections on some of the more harsh realitiesReflections on some of the more harsh realitiesReflections on some of the more harsh realities

Section IIISection IIISection IIISection IIIInn Memoriam...p. 78Inn Memoriam...p. 78Inn Memoriam...p. 78Inn Memoriam...p. 78Reflections on things rememberedReflections on things rememberedReflections on things rememberedReflections on things remembered

Section IV.Odds and Ends....p. 91Section IV.Odds and Ends....p. 91Section IV.Odds and Ends....p. 91Section IV.Odds and Ends....p. 91

Thyme and The RiverThyme and The RiverThyme and The RiverThyme and The River

p. 1p. 1p. 1p. 1

The newThe newThe newThe new----born sunborn sunborn sunborn sunSits like an eggSits like an eggSits like an eggSits like an egg

On the edge of timeOn the edge of timeOn the edge of timeOn the edge of timeThen rises to baptize Then rises to baptize Then rises to baptize Then rises to baptize the eastthe eastthe eastthe east----facing worldfacing worldfacing worldfacing world

In the lightIn the lightIn the lightIn the lightOf a newOf a newOf a newOf a new----days dawningdays dawningdays dawningdays dawning

p. 2p. 2p. 2p. 2

I chanced upon a sleeping town,I chanced upon a sleeping town,I chanced upon a sleeping town,I chanced upon a sleeping town,Like a giant,Like a giant,Like a giant,Like a giant,

Stretched out in slumber,Stretched out in slumber,Stretched out in slumber,Stretched out in slumber,Covered with the sparklingCovered with the sparklingCovered with the sparklingCovered with the sparkling

Dew drops of street lights and neon signs.Dew drops of street lights and neon signs.Dew drops of street lights and neon signs.Dew drops of street lights and neon signs.

As the sun rose,As the sun rose,As the sun rose,As the sun rose,He yawned with the soundHe yawned with the soundHe yawned with the soundHe yawned with the soundOf farOf farOf farOf far----off dogs barking,off dogs barking,off dogs barking,off dogs barking,

And isolated carsAnd isolated carsAnd isolated carsAnd isolated carsFinding their reverent, sleepyFinding their reverent, sleepyFinding their reverent, sleepyFinding their reverent, sleepyWay down deserted streets.Way down deserted streets.Way down deserted streets.Way down deserted streets.He stretched and house lightsHe stretched and house lightsHe stretched and house lightsHe stretched and house lights

Blinked to greet the sun,Blinked to greet the sun,Blinked to greet the sun,Blinked to greet the sun,The pulse of traffic quickened, The pulse of traffic quickened, The pulse of traffic quickened, The pulse of traffic quickened,

and the town awokeand the town awokeand the town awokeand the town awokeTo face another day.To face another day.To face another day.To face another day.

p. 3p. 3p. 3p. 3

The chirping of birds,The chirping of birds,The chirping of birds,The chirping of birds,Sunday morningSunday morningSunday morningSunday morning

Sleeping in.Sleeping in.Sleeping in.Sleeping in.

p. 4p. 4p. 4p. 4

The buzzing city sitsThe buzzing city sitsThe buzzing city sitsThe buzzing city sitsIn unconscious, languid activity,In unconscious, languid activity,In unconscious, languid activity,In unconscious, languid activity,Spreading its arterial tentaclesSpreading its arterial tentaclesSpreading its arterial tentaclesSpreading its arterial tentacles

To bask in the sun,To bask in the sun,To bask in the sun,To bask in the sun,While corpuscular humanityWhile corpuscular humanityWhile corpuscular humanityWhile corpuscular humanityFlows on in never endingFlows on in never endingFlows on in never endingFlows on in never ending

Complexity.Complexity.Complexity.Complexity.

p. 5p. 5p. 5p. 5

Did you know the sun Did you know the sun Did you know the sun Did you know the sun Can manage to get so lowCan manage to get so lowCan manage to get so lowCan manage to get so lowAs to make the sow bugs As to make the sow bugs As to make the sow bugs As to make the sow bugs

Shadow show,Shadow show,Shadow show,Shadow show,With long humped backWith long humped backWith long humped backWith long humped back

And wiggly feet,And wiggly feet,And wiggly feet,And wiggly feet,Cool upon the Cool upon the Cool upon the Cool upon the Morning street.Morning street.Morning street.Morning street.

p. 6p. 6p. 6p. 6

Filtered light,Filtered light,Filtered light,Filtered light,Through my window streamingThrough my window streamingThrough my window streamingThrough my window streaming

Are you also dreaming?Are you also dreaming?Are you also dreaming?Are you also dreaming?

Evening light,Evening light,Evening light,Evening light,Ive seen you before,Ive seen you before,Ive seen you before,Ive seen you before,But to shut you outBut to shut you outBut to shut you outBut to shut you outI have no door.I have no door.I have no door.I have no door.

Ethereal light,Ethereal light,Ethereal light,Ethereal light,Must you bathe my floorMust you bathe my floorMust you bathe my floorMust you bathe my floor

With scenes that are no more?With scenes that are no more?With scenes that are no more?With scenes that are no more?

Mystic light,Mystic light,Mystic light,Mystic light,Must you come to meMust you come to meMust you come to meMust you come to me

With sadness so majestically? With sadness so majestically? With sadness so majestically? With sadness so majestically?

p. 7p. 7p. 7p. 7

In TexasIn TexasIn TexasIn TexasThe setting sunThe setting sunThe setting sunThe setting sunLooks longinglyLooks longinglyLooks longinglyLooks longingly

Across the flattened landAcross the flattened landAcross the flattened landAcross the flattened landOf ancient sea bedsOf ancient sea bedsOf ancient sea bedsOf ancient sea beds

Before splashing downBefore splashing downBefore splashing downBefore splashing downIn dusty splendorIn dusty splendorIn dusty splendorIn dusty splendorTo cover its headTo cover its headTo cover its headTo cover its head

And purrAnd purrAnd purrAnd purrWith city droning With city droning With city droning With city droning Country cricketsCountry cricketsCountry cricketsCountry cricketsAnd dreamsAnd dreamsAnd dreamsAnd dreams

Of days remembered. Of days remembered. Of days remembered. Of days remembered.

p. 8p. 8p. 8p. 8

I often find myselfI often find myselfI often find myselfI often find myselfWatering my yard at night,Watering my yard at night,Watering my yard at night,Watering my yard at night,The water, leaves, and me,The water, leaves, and me,The water, leaves, and me,The water, leaves, and me,Alone in our private world.Alone in our private world.Alone in our private world.Alone in our private world.

Everyone else is hidingEveryone else is hidingEveryone else is hidingEveryone else is hidingBehind closed doors,Behind closed doors,Behind closed doors,Behind closed doors,

Protected from the starsProtected from the starsProtected from the starsProtected from the starsAnd moon and warm summerAnd moon and warm summerAnd moon and warm summerAnd moon and warm summer

ScentScentScentScent----filled breezes.filled breezes.filled breezes.filled breezes.

The quenching sound of the waterThe quenching sound of the waterThe quenching sound of the waterThe quenching sound of the waterThe silent drinkingThe silent drinkingThe silent drinkingThe silent drinkingThe transformationThe transformationThe transformationThe transformation

Watering Watering Watering Watering My night leavesMy night leavesMy night leavesMy night leaves

p. 9p. 9p. 9p. 9

My black catsMy black catsMy black catsMy black catsTumbled deftly in the darkTumbled deftly in the darkTumbled deftly in the darkTumbled deftly in the darkAs I gazed upon the silenceAs I gazed upon the silenceAs I gazed upon the silenceAs I gazed upon the silence

Of the moon.Of the moon.Of the moon.Of the moon.

p. 10p. 10p. 10p. 10

A meteor streaks across the sky,A meteor streaks across the sky,A meteor streaks across the sky,A meteor streaks across the sky,A light emblazons, A light emblazons, A light emblazons, A light emblazons,

and I catch a glimpse of infinity,and I catch a glimpse of infinity,and I catch a glimpse of infinity,and I catch a glimpse of infinity,A spark struck A spark struck A spark struck A spark struck

from the flint of Eternity.from the flint of Eternity.from the flint of Eternity.from the flint of Eternity.

p. 11p. 11p. 11p. 11

Before the dawnBefore the dawnBefore the dawnBefore the dawnMysterious clouds racingMysterious clouds racingMysterious clouds racingMysterious clouds racing

a full moon.a full moon.a full moon.a full moon.

p. 12p. 12p. 12p. 12

Seven pigeons sit on the edgeSeven pigeons sit on the edgeSeven pigeons sit on the edgeSeven pigeons sit on the edgeof a concrete freeway overpassof a concrete freeway overpassof a concrete freeway overpassof a concrete freeway overpassin an ugly part of townin an ugly part of townin an ugly part of townin an ugly part of town

dreaming dreaming dreaming dreaming of peaceful, wooded limestone cliffsof peaceful, wooded limestone cliffsof peaceful, wooded limestone cliffsof peaceful, wooded limestone cliffsas they soak up the early morning,as they soak up the early morning,as they soak up the early morning,as they soak up the early morning,

primeval sun.primeval sun.primeval sun.primeval sun.

p. 12p. 12p. 12p. 12

The sunThe sunThe sunThe sunAt dawnAt dawnAt dawnAt dawn

Pierces deeplyPierces deeplyPierces deeplyPierces deeplyInto my home,Into my home,Into my home,Into my home,

Surging with optimistic anticipationSurging with optimistic anticipationSurging with optimistic anticipationSurging with optimistic anticipationAnd the joy of Life.And the joy of Life.And the joy of Life.And the joy of Life.

ThenThenThenThen

When the day is over,When the day is over,When the day is over,When the day is over,It slowly withdraws,It slowly withdraws,It slowly withdraws,It slowly withdraws,With exquisite sadness.With exquisite sadness.With exquisite sadness.With exquisite sadness.

In the afterglowIn the afterglowIn the afterglowIn the afterglowOf halcyon memoriesOf halcyon memoriesOf halcyon memoriesOf halcyon memories

The lingering fingers of Love.The lingering fingers of Love.The lingering fingers of Love.The lingering fingers of Love.

p. 13p. 13p. 13p. 13

Time dripsTime dripsTime dripsTime dripsThrough my helpless fingersThrough my helpless fingersThrough my helpless fingersThrough my helpless fingers

As I watchAs I watchAs I watchAs I watchThe tardy sun risingThe tardy sun risingThe tardy sun risingThe tardy sun rising

On the downOn the downOn the downOn the down----side of Summer.side of Summer.side of Summer.side of Summer.

p. 14p. 14p. 14p. 14

p. 15p. 15p. 15p. 15

Two birds chase a bugTwo birds chase a bugTwo birds chase a bugTwo birds chase a bugWho is fast on his wayWho is fast on his wayWho is fast on his wayWho is fast on his wayTo his last Summer day.To his last Summer day.To his last Summer day.To his last Summer day.

A summer comfort morning,A summer comfort morning,A summer comfort morning,A summer comfort morning,Barefoot and shirtlessBarefoot and shirtlessBarefoot and shirtlessBarefoot and shirtlessBefore the dawn,Before the dawn,Before the dawn,Before the dawn,

I seeI seeI seeI seeOrion rising.Orion rising.Orion rising.Orion rising.

p. 16p. 16p. 16p. 16

p. 17p. 17p. 17p. 17

The sundial shadowThe sundial shadowThe sundial shadowThe sundial shadowOf the morning butterflyOf the morning butterflyOf the morning butterflyOf the morning butterflyRegisters the coming Fall.Registers the coming Fall.Registers the coming Fall.Registers the coming Fall.

p. 18p. 18p. 18p. 18

The crow stands stillThe crow stands stillThe crow stands stillThe crow stands stillOn a limb in the fog,On a limb in the fog,On a limb in the fog,On a limb in the fog,Wrapped contentWrapped contentWrapped contentWrapped content

In his grey.In his grey.In his grey.In his grey.

p. 19p. 19p. 19p. 19

I heard the crowI heard the crowI heard the crowI heard the crowIn the fogIn the fogIn the fogIn the fog

And And And And I think I also heardI think I also heardI think I also heardI think I also heardThe fog in the crow.The fog in the crow.The fog in the crow.The fog in the crow.

p. 20p. 20p. 20p. 20

Rolls of hay,Rolls of hay,Rolls of hay,Rolls of hay,tractor parked nearbytractor parked nearbytractor parked nearbytractor parked nearby

needs gas.needs gas.needs gas.needs gas.

p. 21p. 21p. 21p. 21

October morningOctober morningOctober morningOctober morningAnd the fields are stillAnd the fields are stillAnd the fields are stillAnd the fields are still

Sleeping in,Sleeping in,Sleeping in,Sleeping in,Snuggled beneath theirSnuggled beneath theirSnuggled beneath theirSnuggled beneath their

Misty comfort.Misty comfort.Misty comfort.Misty comfort.

p. 22p. 22p. 22p. 22

The time of LunathosThe time of LunathosThe time of LunathosThe time of LunathosIs the full of the moon,Is the full of the moon,Is the full of the moon,Is the full of the moon,

As she watches through the veilAs she watches through the veilAs she watches through the veilAs she watches through the veilOf nomadic, midnight clouds,Of nomadic, midnight clouds,Of nomadic, midnight clouds,Of nomadic, midnight clouds,The faerie dances of leavesThe faerie dances of leavesThe faerie dances of leavesThe faerie dances of leavesIn deserted pathways,In deserted pathways,In deserted pathways,In deserted pathways,

And sows her sparkling images And sows her sparkling images And sows her sparkling images And sows her sparkling images Upon the face Upon the face Upon the face Upon the face

Of the silentOf the silentOf the silentOf the silent

BroodingBroodingBroodingBrooding

Deep.Deep.Deep.Deep.

p. 23p. 23p. 23p. 23

Halloween driftsHalloween driftsHalloween driftsHalloween driftsInto the yearInto the yearInto the yearInto the year

Like a silent, mysterious cloudLike a silent, mysterious cloudLike a silent, mysterious cloudLike a silent, mysterious cloudAcross the faceAcross the faceAcross the faceAcross the face

Of an ominous moon. Of an ominous moon. Of an ominous moon. Of an ominous moon.

The first breath of WinterThe first breath of WinterThe first breath of WinterThe first breath of WinterIs a gentle coolnessIs a gentle coolnessIs a gentle coolnessIs a gentle coolness

That ruffles the leaves of memoryThat ruffles the leaves of memoryThat ruffles the leaves of memoryThat ruffles the leaves of memory

The many beginnings of school,The many beginnings of school,The many beginnings of school,The many beginnings of school,Flocks of birds across a grey sky,Flocks of birds across a grey sky,Flocks of birds across a grey sky,Flocks of birds across a grey sky,And the smell of specialAnd the smell of specialAnd the smell of specialAnd the smell of special----nessnessnessnessHanging heavy on the air.Hanging heavy on the air.Hanging heavy on the air.Hanging heavy on the air.

p. 24p. 24p. 24p. 24

Winter approaches.Winter approaches.Winter approaches.Winter approaches.The caged bird sits, still on his perch...The caged bird sits, still on his perch...The caged bird sits, still on his perch...The caged bird sits, still on his perch...

missed migrations.missed migrations.missed migrations.missed migrations.

p. 25p. 25p. 25p. 25

The crisp dry SummerThe crisp dry SummerThe crisp dry SummerThe crisp dry SummerFalls from the trees and dancesFalls from the trees and dancesFalls from the trees and dancesFalls from the trees and dances

Before Autumnal winds.Before Autumnal winds.Before Autumnal winds.Before Autumnal winds.

p. 26p. 26p. 26p. 26

The leaves have recently fallenThe leaves have recently fallenThe leaves have recently fallenThe leaves have recently fallenLimbs against the sky...Limbs against the sky...Limbs against the sky...Limbs against the sky...

Somewhere the Summer has gone,Somewhere the Summer has gone,Somewhere the Summer has gone,Somewhere the Summer has gone,I cant remember why.I cant remember why.I cant remember why.I cant remember why.

p. 27p. 27p. 27p. 27

There is a rhythm in the skyThere is a rhythm in the skyThere is a rhythm in the skyThere is a rhythm in the skyWhen naked limbs, When naked limbs, When naked limbs, When naked limbs,

reaching high,reaching high,reaching high,reaching high,hold a pause in Natures swing,hold a pause in Natures swing,hold a pause in Natures swing,hold a pause in Natures swing,

And reams of thought And reams of thought And reams of thought And reams of thought for me to glean.for me to glean.for me to glean.for me to glean.

p. 28p. 28p. 28p. 28

There is a songThere is a songThere is a songThere is a songIn the trees,In the trees,In the trees,In the trees,

as they stand bareas they stand bareas they stand bareas they stand bareWithout their leaves,Without their leaves,Without their leaves,Without their leaves,Their naked limbs still Their naked limbs still Their naked limbs still Their naked limbs still Stretched to the skyStretched to the skyStretched to the skyStretched to the sky

Reminiscent of the days gone by.Reminiscent of the days gone by.Reminiscent of the days gone by.Reminiscent of the days gone by.

They speak to meThey speak to meThey speak to meThey speak to meFrom the quietness of their serenityFrom the quietness of their serenityFrom the quietness of their serenityFrom the quietness of their serenity

Of a day that was,Of a day that was,Of a day that was,Of a day that was,at day thats gone,at day thats gone,at day thats gone,at day thats gone,And all that is left,And all that is left,And all that is left,And all that is left,

Is a song.Is a song.Is a song.Is a song.

p. 29p. 29p. 29p. 29

The North wind blowsThe North wind blowsThe North wind blowsThe North wind blowsThrough empty treesThrough empty treesThrough empty treesThrough empty trees

And your ownAnd your ownAnd your ownAnd your ownLost leaves.Lost leaves.Lost leaves.Lost leaves.

p. 30p. 30p. 30p. 30

Winter waterWinter waterWinter waterWinter waterIn vacantIn vacantIn vacantIn vacant----lot tire tracks,lot tire tracks,lot tire tracks,lot tire tracks,

Reflecting gray.Reflecting gray.Reflecting gray.Reflecting gray.

p. 31p. 31p. 31p. 31

p. 32p. 32p. 32p. 32

The MeadowlarkThe MeadowlarkThe MeadowlarkThe MeadowlarkRisesthen disappearsRisesthen disappearsRisesthen disappearsRisesthen disappearsDead grasses of Winter.Dead grasses of Winter.Dead grasses of Winter.Dead grasses of Winter.

p. 33p. 33p. 33p. 33

Glimpses of ducksGlimpses of ducksGlimpses of ducksGlimpses of ducksGray on steaming riverGray on steaming riverGray on steaming riverGray on steaming river

Morning traffic.Morning traffic.Morning traffic.Morning traffic.

p. 34p. 34p. 34p. 34

The stark beautyThe stark beautyThe stark beautyThe stark beautyOf WinterOf WinterOf WinterOf Winter

And the SoulAnd the SoulAnd the SoulAnd the SoulBlow like an unfelt windBlow like an unfelt windBlow like an unfelt windBlow like an unfelt wind

Through the limbsThrough the limbsThrough the limbsThrough the limbsOf forgotten memories.Of forgotten memories.Of forgotten memories.Of forgotten memories.

p. 35p. 35p. 35p. 35

How silently etchedHow silently etchedHow silently etchedHow silently etchedIn black antiquityIn black antiquityIn black antiquityIn black antiquityThe trees awaitThe trees awaitThe trees awaitThe trees await

The pale, slow dawn.The pale, slow dawn.The pale, slow dawn.The pale, slow dawn.

p. 36p. 36p. 36p. 36

The smell of winter wood,The smell of winter wood,The smell of winter wood,The smell of winter wood,Past lives,Past lives,Past lives,Past lives,

Theirs and mine.Theirs and mine.Theirs and mine.Theirs and mine.

p. 37p. 37p. 37p. 37

Fluffy crystals, ermine whiteFluffy crystals, ermine whiteFluffy crystals, ermine whiteFluffy crystals, ermine whiteThat fell so quietly in the nightThat fell so quietly in the nightThat fell so quietly in the nightThat fell so quietly in the nightRobe all in royal pageantry,Robe all in royal pageantry,Robe all in royal pageantry,Robe all in royal pageantry,Lowly bush, the tree, and me.Lowly bush, the tree, and me.Lowly bush, the tree, and me.Lowly bush, the tree, and me.

p. 38p. 38p. 38p. 38

Traffic jam,Traffic jam,Traffic jam,Traffic jam,Grass sticking through snow,Grass sticking through snow,Grass sticking through snow,Grass sticking through snow,

Miniature shadows.Miniature shadows.Miniature shadows.Miniature shadows.

p. 39p. 39p. 39p. 39

Night breeze,Night breeze,Night breeze,Night breeze,Crackling sigh of limbsCrackling sigh of limbsCrackling sigh of limbsCrackling sigh of limbs

Ice growing.Ice growing.Ice growing.Ice growing.

p. 40p. 40p. 40p. 40

Winter morning,Winter morning,Winter morning,Winter morning,Exquisite etching of the treeExquisite etching of the treeExquisite etching of the treeExquisite etching of the tree

The moral structure.The moral structure.The moral structure.The moral structure.

p. 41p. 41p. 41p. 41

The standing peopleThe standing peopleThe standing peopleThe standing peopleWrap the quietnessWrap the quietnessWrap the quietnessWrap the quietness

Of Winter fogOf Winter fogOf Winter fogOf Winter fogAbout their bare branches.About their bare branches.About their bare branches.About their bare branches.

p. 42p. 42p. 42p. 42

Silent snow and shadowsSilent snow and shadowsSilent snow and shadowsSilent snow and shadowsChristmas timeChristmas timeChristmas timeChristmas time

And coming home.And coming home.And coming home.And coming home.

p. 43p. 43p. 43p. 43

The patient Christmas tree waitsThe patient Christmas tree waitsThe patient Christmas tree waitsThe patient Christmas tree waitsDismembered parts boxedDismembered parts boxedDismembered parts boxedDismembered parts boxedIn out of the way places.In out of the way places.In out of the way places.In out of the way places.

Ornaments wrapped in the news Ornaments wrapped in the news Ornaments wrapped in the news Ornaments wrapped in the news Of days gone by,Of days gone by,Of days gone by,Of days gone by,

Slumbering while children swim and playSlumbering while children swim and playSlumbering while children swim and playSlumbering while children swim and playOn warm Summer days.On warm Summer days.On warm Summer days.On warm Summer days.

ThenThenThenThen

Awakened by gentle handsAwakened by gentle handsAwakened by gentle handsAwakened by gentle handsTo the sound of sacred musicTo the sound of sacred musicTo the sound of sacred musicTo the sound of sacred music

The Overseer of GivingThe Overseer of GivingThe Overseer of GivingThe Overseer of GivingIs crowned with hopeIs crowned with hopeIs crowned with hopeIs crowned with hopeAnd hung with love.And hung with love.And hung with love.And hung with love.

Faces missing.Faces missing.Faces missing.Faces missing.Faces new.Faces new.Faces new.Faces new.

The tree in regal silence The tree in regal silence The tree in regal silence The tree in regal silence Wipes the tarnish from faded dreams,Wipes the tarnish from faded dreams,Wipes the tarnish from faded dreams,Wipes the tarnish from faded dreams,Then having brought out the best,Then having brought out the best,Then having brought out the best,Then having brought out the best,

The tree is gently laid to restThe tree is gently laid to restThe tree is gently laid to restThe tree is gently laid to restUntil again reborn.Until again reborn.Until again reborn.Until again reborn.

p. 44p. 44p. 44p. 44

StillStillStillStill----green Christmas treegreen Christmas treegreen Christmas treegreen Christmas treeIn white garbage bagIn white garbage bagIn white garbage bagIn white garbage bagCold wind fluttering.Cold wind fluttering.Cold wind fluttering.Cold wind fluttering.

p. 45p. 45p. 45p. 45

Blue skyBlue skyBlue skyBlue skyThrough December cloudsThrough December cloudsThrough December cloudsThrough December clouds

New Years Eve.New Years Eve.New Years Eve.New Years Eve.

p. 46p. 46p. 46p. 46

On New Years EveOn New Years EveOn New Years EveOn New Years EveWe lit the fireWe lit the fireWe lit the fireWe lit the fire

And turned out the lightsAnd turned out the lightsAnd turned out the lightsAnd turned out the lightsTo watch the crackling flamesTo watch the crackling flamesTo watch the crackling flamesTo watch the crackling flames

Lick nostalgically Lick nostalgically Lick nostalgically Lick nostalgically The logs of days gone by,The logs of days gone by,The logs of days gone by,The logs of days gone by,

Until they fell into Until they fell into Until they fell into Until they fell into Glowing embersGlowing embersGlowing embersGlowing embers

Of formless memories.Of formless memories.Of formless memories.Of formless memories.

The thatched hutsThe thatched hutsThe thatched hutsThe thatched hutsof last summers nestsof last summers nestsof last summers nestsof last summers nests

roost in the winter trees,roost in the winter trees,roost in the winter trees,roost in the winter trees,brooding the birthbrooding the birthbrooding the birthbrooding the birthof another Spring.of another Spring.of another Spring.of another Spring.

p. 47p. 47p. 47p. 47

The pond watches asThe pond watches asThe pond watches asThe pond watches asice wraps brittle branches...ice wraps brittle branches...ice wraps brittle branches...ice wraps brittle branches...

Spring abides in its Spring abides in its Spring abides in its Spring abides in its chrysalischrysalischrysalischrysalis

p. 48p. 48p. 48p. 48

p. 49p. 49p. 49p. 49

The sundial waitsThe sundial waitsThe sundial waitsThe sundial waitsIn the middle of the nightIn the middle of the nightIn the middle of the nightIn the middle of the night

For a shadow.For a shadow.For a shadow.For a shadow.

p. 50p. 50p. 50p. 50

On morningOn morningOn morningOn morningIn the night of the year,In the night of the year,In the night of the year,In the night of the year,

Auburn willows.Auburn willows.Auburn willows.Auburn willows.

p. 51p. 51p. 51p. 51

Edge of SpringEdge of SpringEdge of SpringEdge of SpringCat and I sitCat and I sitCat and I sitCat and I sit

Soaking sunshine.Soaking sunshine.Soaking sunshine.Soaking sunshine.

Spring is Spring is Spring is Spring is the smell of nostalgia and the smell of nostalgia and the smell of nostalgia and the smell of nostalgia and

promises,promises,promises,promises,the feelings of peace,the feelings of peace,the feelings of peace,the feelings of peace,the sound of silent the sound of silent the sound of silent the sound of silent

stirrings,stirrings,stirrings,stirrings,the time of new the time of new the time of new the time of new beginnings.beginnings.beginnings.beginnings.

p. 52p. 52p. 52p. 52

Around the stump Around the stump Around the stump Around the stump of last Summers treeof last Summers treeof last Summers treeof last Summers tree

new sprouts.new sprouts.new sprouts.new sprouts.

p. 53p. 53p. 53p. 53

p. 54p. 54p. 54p. 54

Little riversLittle riversLittle riversLittle riversIn errant, rutted pathIn errant, rutted pathIn errant, rutted pathIn errant, rutted pathWhere I had walked.Where I had walked.Where I had walked.Where I had walked.

p. 55p. 55p. 55p. 55

I like to layI like to layI like to layI like to laywith my ear snuggledwith my ear snuggledwith my ear snuggledwith my ear snuggledGently against the bellyGently against the bellyGently against the bellyGently against the bellyOf my Mother NatureOf my Mother NatureOf my Mother NatureOf my Mother Nature

And listen And listen And listen And listen To the slow, low rumbleTo the slow, low rumbleTo the slow, low rumbleTo the slow, low rumble

Of thunder. Of thunder. Of thunder. Of thunder.

The earth lays backThe earth lays backThe earth lays backThe earth lays backand drinks the gentle rain,and drinks the gentle rain,and drinks the gentle rain,and drinks the gentle rain,

like a catlike a catlike a catlike a catwith its ears being rubbed,with its ears being rubbed,with its ears being rubbed,with its ears being rubbed,

it purrs it purrs it purrs it purrs and shuts its eyes.and shuts its eyes.and shuts its eyes.and shuts its eyes.

p. 56p. 56p. 56p. 56

I went out to visitI went out to visitI went out to visitI went out to visitThe wooden, motionless treeThe wooden, motionless treeThe wooden, motionless treeThe wooden, motionless tree----thingthingthingthingThat stands in my front yard.That stands in my front yard.That stands in my front yard.That stands in my front yard.

It has the distinction of being designated by manIt has the distinction of being designated by manIt has the distinction of being designated by manIt has the distinction of being designated by manAs having the least in the way of life,As having the least in the way of life,As having the least in the way of life,As having the least in the way of life,As it does not move itself about and As it does not move itself about and As it does not move itself about and As it does not move itself about and

It knows nothing of Bibles and Science.It knows nothing of Bibles and Science.It knows nothing of Bibles and Science.It knows nothing of Bibles and Science.

It was an early SpringIt was an early SpringIt was an early SpringIt was an early SpringAnd my treeAnd my treeAnd my treeAnd my tree----thing was covered thing was covered thing was covered thing was covered

With white blossomsWith white blossomsWith white blossomsWith white blossomsIt had created from unknown depths of its being.It had created from unknown depths of its being.It had created from unknown depths of its being.It had created from unknown depths of its being.They were displayed against a clear, blue sky.They were displayed against a clear, blue sky.They were displayed against a clear, blue sky.They were displayed against a clear, blue sky.

I could see the delicate shadows I could see the delicate shadows I could see the delicate shadows I could see the delicate shadows of tiny stamens against pure white petals.of tiny stamens against pure white petals.of tiny stamens against pure white petals.of tiny stamens against pure white petals.A whole blossom occasionally trembling A whole blossom occasionally trembling A whole blossom occasionally trembling A whole blossom occasionally trembling

At the touch of an unfelt breeze,At the touch of an unfelt breeze,At the touch of an unfelt breeze,At the touch of an unfelt breeze,While somewhere a MockingbirdWhile somewhere a MockingbirdWhile somewhere a MockingbirdWhile somewhere a MockingbirdSang his Hallelujah chorus. Sang his Hallelujah chorus. Sang his Hallelujah chorus. Sang his Hallelujah chorus.

p. 57p. 57p. 57p. 57

p. 58p. 58p. 58p. 58

I noticed the flock of birds flyI noticed the flock of birds flyI noticed the flock of birds flyI noticed the flock of birds flyOver the freeway, and I realizedOver the freeway, and I realizedOver the freeway, and I realizedOver the freeway, and I realized

We were returning home from work,We were returning home from work,We were returning home from work,We were returning home from work,The birds and I,The birds and I,The birds and I,The birds and I,

They to their nests, and I to mine.They to their nests, and I to mine.They to their nests, and I to mine.They to their nests, and I to mine.

p. 59p. 59p. 59p. 59

The end of dayThe end of dayThe end of dayThe end of dayStreaming carsStreaming carsStreaming carsStreaming cars

And the fluffy silenceAnd the fluffy silenceAnd the fluffy silenceAnd the fluffy silenceOf Summer clouds.Of Summer clouds.Of Summer clouds.Of Summer clouds.

p. 60p. 60p. 60p. 60

I would speak of I would speak of I would speak of I would speak of soft, white, Summer clouds,soft, white, Summer clouds,soft, white, Summer clouds,soft, white, Summer clouds,

But when I think But when I think But when I think But when I think of their billowing silenceof their billowing silenceof their billowing silenceof their billowing silence

I knowI knowI knowI knowThere is nothing to say.There is nothing to say.There is nothing to say.There is nothing to say.

Styx and StonesStyx and StonesStyx and StonesStyx and Stones

p. 61p. 61p. 61p. 61

p. 62p. 62p. 62p. 62

LongLongLongLong----dead Egretdead Egretdead Egretdead EgretHanging high on a limbHanging high on a limbHanging high on a limbHanging high on a limb

Slight movement.Slight movement.Slight movement.Slight movement.

p. 63p. 63p. 63p. 63

Driving in a grey worldDriving in a grey worldDriving in a grey worldDriving in a grey worldOf clouds and winter rain,Of clouds and winter rain,Of clouds and winter rain,Of clouds and winter rain,My cold coughs in comfortMy cold coughs in comfortMy cold coughs in comfortMy cold coughs in comfortAs I do my chores mundane.As I do my chores mundane.As I do my chores mundane.As I do my chores mundane.

By chance, I see a cat,By chance, I see a cat,By chance, I see a cat,By chance, I see a cat,His lifeless eyes I meet.His lifeless eyes I meet.His lifeless eyes I meet.His lifeless eyes I meet.

Its a bad day, I thought,Its a bad day, I thought,Its a bad day, I thought,Its a bad day, I thought,To be squashed in the street.To be squashed in the street.To be squashed in the street.To be squashed in the street.

p. 64p. 64p. 64p. 64

Old, pleasant memoriesOld, pleasant memoriesOld, pleasant memoriesOld, pleasant memoriesEngulf meEngulf meEngulf meEngulf me

With the smell of the smellWith the smell of the smellWith the smell of the smellWith the smell of the smellOf the skunk.Of the skunk.Of the skunk.Of the skunk.

To bad he had to die To bad he had to die To bad he had to die To bad he had to die Between the unnatural Between the unnatural Between the unnatural Between the unnatural Wheels and asphaltWheels and asphaltWheels and asphaltWheels and asphalt

For my pungent recollections.For my pungent recollections.For my pungent recollections.For my pungent recollections.

To bad I have had to dieTo bad I have had to dieTo bad I have had to dieTo bad I have had to dieA little at a timeA little at a timeA little at a timeA little at a time

Ground down bit by bitGround down bit by bitGround down bit by bitGround down bit by bitBetween the same two things.Between the same two things.Between the same two things.Between the same two things.

p. 65p. 65p. 65p. 65

Feeding birds,Feeding birds,Feeding birds,Feeding birds,The dogs food bowlThe dogs food bowlThe dogs food bowlThe dogs food bowlOneOneOneOne----legged Starling.legged Starling.legged Starling.legged Starling.

p. 66p. 66p. 66p. 66

I threw an acornI threw an acornI threw an acornI threw an acornTo a squirrelTo a squirrelTo a squirrelTo a squirrel

Who was dead and decaying,Who was dead and decaying,Who was dead and decaying,Who was dead and decaying,But he had already eaten.But he had already eaten.But he had already eaten.But he had already eaten.

p. 67p. 67p. 67p. 67

I went to checkI went to checkI went to checkI went to checkAnd sure enoughAnd sure enoughAnd sure enoughAnd sure enough

The dead Egret was still there.The dead Egret was still there.The dead Egret was still there.The dead Egret was still there.Head and feet hanging down,Head and feet hanging down,Head and feet hanging down,Head and feet hanging down,

Just like the last time,Just like the last time,Just like the last time,Just like the last time,More bone than feathers.More bone than feathers.More bone than feathers.More bone than feathers.

All his friends All his friends All his friends All his friends Have flown South.Have flown South.Have flown South.Have flown South.

It will soon be winter.It will soon be winter.It will soon be winter.It will soon be winter.

p. 68p. 68p. 68p. 68

I heard the rooster crow this morningI heard the rooster crow this morningI heard the rooster crow this morningI heard the rooster crow this morningAcross the misty fields,Across the misty fields,Across the misty fields,Across the misty fields,

A sourceA sourceA sourceA source----less sound from the pastless sound from the pastless sound from the pastless sound from the pastAs well as the present,As well as the present,As well as the present,As well as the present,

But how long will house and highwayBut how long will house and highwayBut how long will house and highwayBut how long will house and highwayLeave him the freedom to crowLeave him the freedom to crowLeave him the freedom to crowLeave him the freedom to crowAnd me the freedom to listen?And me the freedom to listen?And me the freedom to listen?And me the freedom to listen?

p. 69p. 69p. 69p. 69

I used to know a knoll,I used to know a knoll,I used to know a knoll,I used to know a knoll,Well covered with growthWell covered with growthWell covered with growthWell covered with growthAnd brown in the sun.And brown in the sun.And brown in the sun.And brown in the sun.

But time and the elementsBut time and the elementsBut time and the elementsBut time and the elementsHave passed across its faceHave passed across its faceHave passed across its faceHave passed across its faceLeaving a white and bald, Leaving a white and bald, Leaving a white and bald, Leaving a white and bald,

Scraggly dome.Scraggly dome.Scraggly dome.Scraggly dome.

A change I seldom noticeA change I seldom noticeA change I seldom noticeA change I seldom noticeExcept when I pauseExcept when I pauseExcept when I pauseExcept when I pauseTo look in the mirror.To look in the mirror.To look in the mirror.To look in the mirror.

p. 70p. 70p. 70p. 70

Sometimes Sometimes Sometimes Sometimes I feel sorry for the childI feel sorry for the childI feel sorry for the childI feel sorry for the child

I used to be,I used to be,I used to be,I used to be,He got lost,He got lost,He got lost,He got lost,It seems,It seems,It seems,It seems,

Somewhere along the way Somewhere along the way Somewhere along the way Somewhere along the way To becoming me.To becoming me.To becoming me.To becoming me.

p. 71p. 71p. 71p. 71

I remembered, I remembered, I remembered, I remembered, as I sat and pantedas I sat and pantedas I sat and pantedas I sat and panted

In the heat of the day,In the heat of the day,In the heat of the day,In the heat of the day,The longThe longThe longThe long----dead dog, with all the hairdead dog, with all the hairdead dog, with all the hairdead dog, with all the hair

That had fallen away,That had fallen away,That had fallen away,That had fallen away,That had been dumped by the riverThat had been dumped by the riverThat had been dumped by the riverThat had been dumped by the river

Where I used to play,Where I used to play,Where I used to play,Where I used to play,And I remembered myselfAnd I remembered myselfAnd I remembered myselfAnd I remembered myselfIn the heat of the day.In the heat of the day.In the heat of the day.In the heat of the day.

p. 72p. 72p. 72p. 72

The nursing home sitsThe nursing home sitsThe nursing home sitsThe nursing home sitsQuietly with folded handsQuietly with folded handsQuietly with folded handsQuietly with folded hands

And a gut fullAnd a gut fullAnd a gut fullAnd a gut fullOf old age.Of old age.Of old age.Of old age.

p. 73p. 73p. 73p. 73

Field of wreaths,Field of wreaths,Field of wreaths,Field of wreaths,Graveyard flowers in the snowGraveyard flowers in the snowGraveyard flowers in the snowGraveyard flowers in the snow

The sound of sleet.The sound of sleet.The sound of sleet.The sound of sleet.

p. 74p. 74p. 74p. 74

Fresh flowers,Fresh flowers,Fresh flowers,Fresh flowers,Stand alone, by the graveStand alone, by the graveStand alone, by the graveStand alone, by the grave

Waiting to wilt.Waiting to wilt.Waiting to wilt.Waiting to wilt.

p. 75p. 75p. 75p. 75

Time hangs Time hangs Time hangs Time hangs Like a wet sheetLike a wet sheetLike a wet sheetLike a wet sheetAround my ears;Around my ears;Around my ears;Around my ears;

Two chairs and a tableTwo chairs and a tableTwo chairs and a tableTwo chairs and a tablePeer at me through closed eyes of silence,Peer at me through closed eyes of silence,Peer at me through closed eyes of silence,Peer at me through closed eyes of silence,

Lines etched on lines,Lines etched on lines,Lines etched on lines,Lines etched on lines,As the colors play a monotonous beatAs the colors play a monotonous beatAs the colors play a monotonous beatAs the colors play a monotonous beat

On my retina.On my retina.On my retina.On my retina.I wait,I wait,I wait,I wait,

Poised at the point betweenPoised at the point betweenPoised at the point betweenPoised at the point betweenInhaling and exhaling,Inhaling and exhaling,Inhaling and exhaling,Inhaling and exhaling,Until I exhale and leave.Until I exhale and leave.Until I exhale and leave.Until I exhale and leave.

p. 76p. 76p. 76p. 76

Rows of rattlesnake headsRows of rattlesnake headsRows of rattlesnake headsRows of rattlesnake headsWait for touristsWait for touristsWait for touristsWait for tourists

In an airline terminal.In an airline terminal.In an airline terminal.In an airline terminal.

The Spirit of the snakesThe Spirit of the snakesThe Spirit of the snakesThe Spirit of the snakesRecoils deeper in the Winter rocks,Recoils deeper in the Winter rocks,Recoils deeper in the Winter rocks,Recoils deeper in the Winter rocks,

Contemplating Mammalian insensitivities.Contemplating Mammalian insensitivities.Contemplating Mammalian insensitivities.Contemplating Mammalian insensitivities.

p. 77p. 77p. 77p. 77

I was looking for books when I found the looksI was looking for books when I found the looksI was looking for books when I found the looksI was looking for books when I found the looksLooking back at meLooking back at meLooking back at meLooking back at me

Reproachful looks from sightless orbsReproachful looks from sightless orbsReproachful looks from sightless orbsReproachful looks from sightless orbsThat could not help but be where they were.That could not help but be where they were.That could not help but be where they were.That could not help but be where they were.

Human skulls for sale.Human skulls for sale.Human skulls for sale.Human skulls for sale.

Nice chrome springs attachedNice chrome springs attachedNice chrome springs attachedNice chrome springs attachedSo you can lift the top to seeSo you can lift the top to seeSo you can lift the top to seeSo you can lift the top to seeThat there is no one home.That there is no one home.That there is no one home.That there is no one home.

They probably never thought They probably never thought They probably never thought They probably never thought as they struggled through as they struggled through as they struggled through as they struggled through The pathos of their livesThe pathos of their livesThe pathos of their livesThe pathos of their lives

That their skulls would graceThat their skulls would graceThat their skulls would graceThat their skulls would graceThe shelves of a bookstore.The shelves of a bookstore.The shelves of a bookstore.The shelves of a bookstore.

Ive seen many an old person with face like a skull.Ive seen many an old person with face like a skull.Ive seen many an old person with face like a skull.Ive seen many an old person with face like a skull.But this was from the other side of the river StyxBut this was from the other side of the river StyxBut this was from the other side of the river StyxBut this was from the other side of the river Styx

These skulls that looked like an old person,These skulls that looked like an old person,These skulls that looked like an old person,These skulls that looked like an old person,These pathetic bonesThese pathetic bonesThese pathetic bonesThese pathetic bones

These mortal remains of immortals. These mortal remains of immortals. These mortal remains of immortals. These mortal remains of immortals.

Inn MemoriamInn MemoriamInn MemoriamInn Memoriam

p. 78p. 78p. 78p. 78

p. 79p. 79p. 79p. 79

The thunder in my veinsThe thunder in my veinsThe thunder in my veinsThe thunder in my veinsLike soft water over smooth rocksLike soft water over smooth rocksLike soft water over smooth rocksLike soft water over smooth rocks

CaressesCaressesCaressesCaressesClashes against the foundation of my being,Clashes against the foundation of my being,Clashes against the foundation of my being,Clashes against the foundation of my being,

Like the gnarled hand of the workerLike the gnarled hand of the workerLike the gnarled hand of the workerLike the gnarled hand of the workerOn the head of the small girlOn the head of the small girlOn the head of the small girlOn the head of the small girl

Whose grimy lipsWhose grimy lipsWhose grimy lipsWhose grimy lipsConceal teeth of white.Conceal teeth of white.Conceal teeth of white.Conceal teeth of white.

The breath of the rainThe breath of the rainThe breath of the rainThe breath of the rainThrough the dusty window screen,Through the dusty window screen,Through the dusty window screen,Through the dusty window screen,

The smoke of memoryThe smoke of memoryThe smoke of memoryThe smoke of memoryTickling the nostrilsTickling the nostrilsTickling the nostrilsTickling the nostrils

Of the halls of memoriam,Of the halls of memoriam,Of the halls of memoriam,Of the halls of memoriam,Caressing familiarlyCaressing familiarlyCaressing familiarlyCaressing familiarly

The busts of the agesThe busts of the agesThe busts of the agesThe busts of the agesA childs hand on a dinosaurs bone.A childs hand on a dinosaurs bone.A childs hand on a dinosaurs bone.A childs hand on a dinosaurs bone.

The thunder, the rain, the painThe thunder, the rain, the painThe thunder, the rain, the painThe thunder, the rain, the painof the secret that I dont know.of the secret that I dont know.of the secret that I dont know.of the secret that I dont know.

p. 80p. 80p. 80p. 80

I was refinishing an antique,I was refinishing an antique,I was refinishing an antique,I was refinishing an antique,Only slightly older than myself.Only slightly older than myself.Only slightly older than myself.Only slightly older than myself.

As I rubbed the old woodAs I rubbed the old woodAs I rubbed the old woodAs I rubbed the old woodIn a circular motion,In a circular motion,In a circular motion,In a circular motion,

The old encrustations of the yearsThe old encrustations of the yearsThe old encrustations of the yearsThe old encrustations of the yearsSlowly dissolved.Slowly dissolved.Slowly dissolved.Slowly dissolved.The original grainThe original grainThe original grainThe original grain

And finish of the woodAnd finish of the woodAnd finish of the woodAnd finish of the woodCame to the surfaceCame to the surfaceCame to the surfaceCame to the surface

For the first time in a long time.For the first time in a long time.For the first time in a long time.For the first time in a long time.

My daughter came outMy daughter came outMy daughter came outMy daughter came outWanting to hearWanting to hearWanting to hearWanting to hear

Some of the old stories.Some of the old stories.Some of the old stories.Some of the old stories.And as I scrubbed and rubbed,And as I scrubbed and rubbed,And as I scrubbed and rubbed,And as I scrubbed and rubbed,

I spun my tales.I spun my tales.I spun my tales.I spun my tales.Going from association to association,Going from association to association,Going from association to association,Going from association to association,The old memories came to the surface,The old memories came to the surface,The old memories came to the surface,The old memories came to the surface,

The old, but familiar patternThe old, but familiar patternThe old, but familiar patternThe old, but familiar patternOf my life. Of my life. Of my life. Of my life.

p. 81p. 81p. 81p. 81

Sometimes on the way to work,Sometimes on the way to work,Sometimes on the way to work,Sometimes on the way to work,Vague, mystic childhoodsVague, mystic childhoodsVague, mystic childhoodsVague, mystic childhoodsRaise their intimationsRaise their intimationsRaise their intimationsRaise their intimationsFrom fleeting glimpsesFrom fleeting glimpsesFrom fleeting glimpsesFrom fleeting glimpses

Of silent,Of silent,Of silent,Of silent,Morning moistness.Morning moistness.Morning moistness.Morning moistness.

p. 82p. 82p. 82p. 82

When you are older and timeWhen you are older and timeWhen you are older and timeWhen you are older and timeIncreases its speedIncreases its speedIncreases its speedIncreases its speedBeneath your feet,Beneath your feet,Beneath your feet,Beneath your feet,

You can pause and takeYou can pause and takeYou can pause and takeYou can pause and takeA deep breath of the presentA deep breath of the presentA deep breath of the presentA deep breath of the presentWith greatly increased savor.With greatly increased savor.With greatly increased savor.With greatly increased savor.

p. 83p. 83p. 83p. 83

History is my gardenHistory is my gardenHistory is my gardenHistory is my gardenThat I walk alongThat I walk alongThat I walk alongThat I walk along

Alone,Alone,Alone,Alone,Carefully stepping among the flowersCarefully stepping among the flowersCarefully stepping among the flowersCarefully stepping among the flowers

Of memory.Of memory.Of memory.Of memory.

p. 84p. 84p. 84p. 84

The old house and manThe old house and manThe old house and manThe old house and manAre still hanging onAre still hanging onAre still hanging onAre still hanging on

To memories.To memories.To memories.To memories.

p. 85p. 85p. 85p. 85

I used to take long walks,I used to take long walks,I used to take long walks,I used to take long walks,Especially to the treeEspecially to the treeEspecially to the treeEspecially to the tree

BarkBarkBarkBark----less, gaunt, and bare,less, gaunt, and bare,less, gaunt, and bare,less, gaunt, and bare,White against the skyWhite against the skyWhite against the skyWhite against the sky

We would stand in silence,We would stand in silence,We would stand in silence,We would stand in silence,The Devil Tree and IThe Devil Tree and IThe Devil Tree and IThe Devil Tree and I

p. 86p. 86p. 86p. 86

When I was a kidWhen I was a kidWhen I was a kidWhen I was a kidI used to say,I used to say,I used to say,I used to say,

When I am a manWhen I am a manWhen I am a manWhen I am a manIll return this way,Ill return this way,Ill return this way,Ill return this way,

Ill walk the same roads,Ill walk the same roads,Ill walk the same roads,Ill walk the same roads,Ill breath the same air,Ill breath the same air,Ill breath the same air,Ill breath the same air,

Ill look at the same houses,Ill look at the same houses,Ill look at the same houses,Ill look at the same houses,The ones that are there,The ones that are there,The ones that are there,The ones that are there,And I will remember meAnd I will remember meAnd I will remember meAnd I will remember me

When I was a kid.When I was a kid.When I was a kid.When I was a kid.

I grew upI grew upI grew upI grew upAnd I did.And I did.And I did.And I did.

p. 87p. 87p. 87p. 87

Ive taken my share of walksIve taken my share of walksIve taken my share of walksIve taken my share of walksEarly morning mistAlone with the worldAlone with the worldAlone with the worldAlone with the worldSun upon my back

But now I am buffetedBut now I am buffetedBut now I am buffetedBut now I am buffetedKicking rocks and cansBy the winds of timeBy the winds of timeBy the winds of timeBy the winds of timeListening to the birds

And keep bumping into And keep bumping into And keep bumping into And keep bumping into Wind in the hair

The rocks of responsibilityThe rocks of responsibilityThe rocks of responsibilityThe rocks of responsibilityHeady afternoon

So I walk in memorySo I walk in memorySo I walk in memorySo I walk in memoryRhythm to the stride

Where cool breezes blowWhere cool breezes blowWhere cool breezes blowWhere cool breezes blowTired but happyAnd promisesAnd promisesAnd promisesAnd promisesComing home

Shimmer in the air.Shimmer in the air.Shimmer in the air.Shimmer in the air.

p. 88p. 88p. 88p. 88

You know the old Mesquite treesYou know the old Mesquite treesYou know the old Mesquite treesYou know the old Mesquite treesBig, rugged trunks,Big, rugged trunks,Big, rugged trunks,Big, rugged trunks,

The rough, cratered bark,The rough, cratered bark,The rough, cratered bark,The rough, cratered bark,Roots that go on forever,Roots that go on forever,Roots that go on forever,Roots that go on forever,

Lacy leaves, mingled with thorns,Lacy leaves, mingled with thorns,Lacy leaves, mingled with thorns,Lacy leaves, mingled with thorns,Limbs for climbing,Limbs for climbing,Limbs for climbing,Limbs for climbing,If youve a mind to.If youve a mind to.If youve a mind to.If youve a mind to.

The old survivorsThe old survivorsThe old survivorsThe old survivorsSentinels guarding the heritageSentinels guarding the heritageSentinels guarding the heritageSentinels guarding the heritage

Of a blue West Texas sky.Of a blue West Texas sky.Of a blue West Texas sky.Of a blue West Texas sky.

I think of theseI think of theseI think of theseI think of theseAndAndAndAnd

I think of his hands.I think of his hands.I think of his hands.I think of his hands.

Some things are always there,Some things are always there,Some things are always there,Some things are always there,Whether you stand beside themWhether you stand beside themWhether you stand beside themWhether you stand beside them

Or not.Or not.Or not.Or not.

p. 89p. 89p. 89p. 89

The mists of morningThe mists of morningThe mists of morningThe mists of morningLying low across the fields,Lying low across the fields,Lying low across the fields,Lying low across the fields,

And shadowy shapesAnd shadowy shapesAnd shadowy shapesAnd shadowy shapesOf trees and memories.Of trees and memories.Of trees and memories.Of trees and memories.

p. 90p. 90p. 90p. 90

On the Death of My FatherOn the Death of My FatherOn the Death of My FatherOn the Death of My FatherIn solemn processionIn solemn processionIn solemn processionIn solemn processionWe joined the TravelerWe joined the TravelerWe joined the TravelerWe joined the TravelerWhen we found his feetWhen we found his feetWhen we found his feetWhen we found his feet

Were on the path to the Rivers edge.Were on the path to the Rivers edge.Were on the path to the Rivers edge.Were on the path to the Rivers edge.

Out of the mists Out of the mists Out of the mists Out of the mists the boatman loomed.the boatman loomed.the boatman loomed.the boatman loomed.There was no sound There was no sound There was no sound There was no sound

from the ominous oars,from the ominous oars,from the ominous oars,from the ominous oars,Only the soft lapping of timeOnly the soft lapping of timeOnly the soft lapping of timeOnly the soft lapping of timethe wash of the unavoidablethe wash of the unavoidablethe wash of the unavoidablethe wash of the unavoidable

Standing in silent vigilStanding in silent vigilStanding in silent vigilStanding in silent vigilAround his last tracks in the sandAround his last tracks in the sandAround his last tracks in the sandAround his last tracks in the sand

We watched and waitedWe watched and waitedWe watched and waitedWe watched and waitedAs the Traveler and the boatman As the Traveler and the boatman As the Traveler and the boatman As the Traveler and the boatman

disappeared without sounddisappeared without sounddisappeared without sounddisappeared without soundInto the mists.Into the mists.Into the mists.Into the mists.

Then like a cleanup crewThen like a cleanup crewThen like a cleanup crewThen like a cleanup crewAt the end of a play,At the end of a play,At the end of a play,At the end of a play,

We discarded the propsWe discarded the propsWe discarded the propsWe discarded the propsAnd picked up the pieces.And picked up the pieces.And picked up the pieces.And picked up the pieces.

Odds and EndsOdds and EndsOdds and EndsOdds and Ends

p. 91p. 91p. 91p. 91

Poetry Poetry Poetry Poetry Is news reportingIs news reportingIs news reportingIs news reporting

On my ownOn my ownOn my ownOn my ownWordless state of affairesWordless state of affairesWordless state of affairesWordless state of affaires

p. 92p. 92p. 92p. 92

Poetry isPoetry isPoetry isPoetry isThe unimportant leafThe unimportant leafThe unimportant leafThe unimportant leafIn an Autumnal woodIn an Autumnal woodIn an Autumnal woodIn an Autumnal wood

That floats slowly for a whileThat floats slowly for a whileThat floats slowly for a whileThat floats slowly for a whileOver common rocks and moss,Over common rocks and moss,Over common rocks and moss,Over common rocks and moss,

Then rejoins the currentThen rejoins the currentThen rejoins the currentThen rejoins the currentTo drift out of sight.To drift out of sight.To drift out of sight.To drift out of sight.

p. 93p. 93p. 93p. 93

I wonder why I botherI wonder why I botherI wonder why I botherI wonder why I botherTo try to capture feelings in cold To try to capture feelings in cold To try to capture feelings in cold To try to capture feelings in cold

Symbols traced in conventional lines. Symbols traced in conventional lines. Symbols traced in conventional lines. Symbols traced in conventional lines. The feeling is dead or dying before I try.The feeling is dead or dying before I try.The feeling is dead or dying before I try.The feeling is dead or dying before I try.

Im like a child waving as the train races by.Im like a child waving as the train races by.Im like a child waving as the train races by.Im like a child waving as the train races by.

I think I will goI think I will goI think I will goI think I will goAnd stand on the tracksAnd stand on the tracksAnd stand on the tracksAnd stand on the tracks

To feel the departing trembleTo feel the departing trembleTo feel the departing trembleTo feel the departing trembleIn my feet.In my feet.In my feet.In my feet.

p. 94p. 94p. 94p. 94

I met myselfI met myselfI met myselfI met myselfWhile walking alongWhile walking alongWhile walking alongWhile walking alongAn unexpected encounter.An unexpected encounter.An unexpected encounter.An unexpected encounter.It happened somewhereIt happened somewhereIt happened somewhereIt happened somewhere

Beyond the range of my visionBeyond the range of my visionBeyond the range of my visionBeyond the range of my visionBetween two thoughts.Between two thoughts.Between two thoughts.Between two thoughts.

p. 95p. 95p. 95p. 95

The EndThe EndThe EndThe End