In Ellen Rowland's class, it was suggested we start with the first line I used, and write this more like a prose poem than my more usual spare style. When You Feel Ready after Bryony Littlefair When you feel better from this—and you will— wander outside when it’s dark, sit on your favorite outcrop; listen for owlsong in the quiet how they hold an intimate conversation tree to tree calling into the night.
Thank you, Jan. I'm uncomfortable being this wordy, having come from writing memoir (1) and novels (3) for twenty-four years before poetry took over my life. But it was an exercise working with Ellen Rowland, and I feel I always benefit from those! Stretching myself.
Thanks, Jan! It is way "prosier" than most of my poems, but it was an exercise, and I felt I learned from it. I have a collection out on impermanence, aging, and death, so this topic is definitely in my wheelhouse. Sending love!
Oh, I love this, Amrita! Your prose poem style really works well here, and leads to such a satisfying ending. So nicely done!
Thank you, Jan. I'm uncomfortable being this wordy, having come from writing memoir (1) and novels (3) for twenty-four years before poetry took over my life. But it was an exercise working with Ellen Rowland, and I feel I always benefit from those! Stretching myself.
So much goodness came from this prompt, including this 💛💛💛
Thank you, Holly!
Such a great prompt line and response from you, one to share with a grieving soul.
Thanks, Jan! It is way "prosier" than most of my poems, but it was an exercise, and I felt I learned from it. I have a collection out on impermanence, aging, and death, so this topic is definitely in my wheelhouse. Sending love!
A lovely contemplative prescription.
This one sounds like a prayer. It's calming and meditative.
Thank you Amrita!
This is lovely. More like this please!
What an inspirational prompt and comforting poem! Beautiful :)