deeper shadows where the walls meet... autumn rain – Mark E. Brager, The Heron's Nest, Volume XXI, Number 3 (2019) I imagine a corner, two walls meeting at right angles. I can see the depth of shadow there. If I reach out, I am sure the surface – rough brick or smooth masonry – will be cooler; perhaps because the autumn rain I now notice has started to fall. The places where people meet are more emotionally complex, stepping, as we may have to, from the comfort of the familiar to the challenge of the unfamiliar. Those “deeper shadows” may be rich with empathy and gratitude. Eshadows in corners Photograph by Steven Castledinequally, they may be fraught with conflict and umbrage. Brager’s haiku shifts me from inanimate objects to human experience. I sense loss through the image of “autumn rain,” or at least an understanding, or acceptance, of inevitable change that results in something being left behind. Perhaps change, even for the better, always leaves a
An evocative haiku that speaks volumes; worthy of the place it received in the ‘With Words Haiku competition’…
ReplyDeleteThank you, Frank.
ReplyDeleteCongrats! I love the idea that it is me who decides whether the sea or the lyrical I is speaking to her.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes
Ralf
Yes! That's absolutely what I wanted the reader to experience. Thanks so much for posting, Ralf.
ReplyDeleteLovely comments on a superb haiku. I still get a kick out of reading Lynne's poem, even now, after many re-reads as judge.
ReplyDeleteA cheque will be on its way, with a haiku journal notebook, soon! ;-)
Alan
Area 17
With Words Online Haiku Competition Results
.
All life on earth originated from the sea. We talk of mother earth, but I wonder if it should be mother ocean? Your link between the sound of the sea and your communication with your mother - on her birthday - has all sorts of resonances, for me. And it's a lovely haiku. Thank you and congratulations!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Leigh.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on the win Lynne, Matt
ReplyDeleteThanks, Matt : )
ReplyDelete