Grandfather's Serenade

(Inspired by a Navaho tradition.)

A white moth entered
while we slept --
it rests where wall
and ceiling meet.

Grandfather serenades the snowy wings --
he says he sings to Grandmother;
she longs for those she knew
in life.

His words are sweet assurance;
his heart is hers alone. He vows
we will remember her.
By midday she is gone.

— Gerry, Jul 07, 2009

About the Author

Country/Region: USA

Critiques

Kailashana

16 years 11 months ago

This is lovely Gerry, so

This is lovely Gerry, so bittersweet. I am a fan of your talent. ~A "It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err." Mahatma Gandhi

Gerry

16 years 11 months ago

Sweet Encouragement

Thanks, Anna, for your kind words. I write a number of short poems and because I'm new here, I wasn't sure a short poem would be acceptable. I appreciate your encouragement. Gerry

Kailashana

16 years 11 months ago

Hi Gerry, “To thine own

Hi Gerry, "To thine own self be true." and to thine own muse.... ~A "It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err." Mahatma Gandhi

Ink Dragon

16 years 11 months ago

Gerry,

first of all: of course short poems are acceptable, no worries. I think it's much better to say something important in a few words than to ramble on for hundreds of lines without really saying anything. (Which doesn't mean that everyone who writes long poems "rambles".) I like this short poem that quietly tells a story. I don't know if you like Folk music, but there's this song that has the same theme, I think it's called "She saw him smile". Your poem makes this song play in my head. Thanks, ~Nina

Gerry

16 years 11 months ago

An Open Door!

Thank you, dear Nina. I write many short poems and I have more success with having them published than longer poems. I am probably writing "space filler." I always appreciate critique, too, so never hesitate. I understand you are very capable. I have loved folk music since the 60s and I'm glad my poem reminded you of a song! Gerry

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