Join the Neopoet online poetry workshop and community to improve as a writer, meet fellow poets, and showcase your work. Sign up, submit your poetry, and get started.

This poem is part of the workshop:

Earn A Poem Workshop 1

(Read More...)

Grandfather

There was a poem
written in his eyes

even before I knew
of such things.

I, the little girl always searching
for words and meaning,

saw his language there,
the beauty and balance of life,

the quietude of few words
unfolding like blankets, rivulets,

mantles of verse and rhyme,
untangling a sadness I

could never understand, making
the world a kinder place, delivering

inspirations and courage as this
child wandered into her dreams.

About This Poem

Last Few Words: I used to write tons of poetry about the war in Viet Nam. My grandfather could calm and soothe those hard times with his gentle nature and spirit.

Style/Type: Free verse

Review Request Intensity: I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back

Editing Stage: Editing - rough draft

About the Author

Country/Region: United States

Favorite Poets: I tend to read Ted Kooser, Jim Harrison, Billy Collins, Paul Simon, Robert Frost. I like minimalist poetry, and poems reflecting on nature and Mother Earth.

This user supports Neopoet so it can be free to all

More from this author

Comments

Ruby Lord

Ruby Lord

4 months ago

Hi Lavender, this reads as a

Hi Lavender, this reads as a genuine reflection of your grandfather, filled with admiration and love.
Your line “the quietude of few words unfolding like blankets, rivulets” is lovely.
It is not difficult to see how your thoughts of your grandfather impact your poetry. Ruby xx

Lavender

Lavender

4 months ago

Hello, Ruby,

I've recently read a bit of poetry that reminded me of my grandfather. I was young when he passed, but still appreciate his calm temperament and nature. When I skinned my knee once, he cleaned and bandaged the wound and gently told me, "Leave it be, now." A lovely man.
Thank you for reading!
Lx

Candlewitch

Candlewitch

4 months ago

Dear Lavender,

Your Grandfather sounds like a many faceted soul, an old soul from his birth growing wiser with his years. I am very glad you had his influence in your life...it shines through...

much love, Cat

Lavender

Lavender

4 months ago

Hello, Cat,

He really was very unpretentious and kind. Spoke calmly with intention. Funny how as I age, (I'm almost his age when he passed away) I realize how strong his character was - strong enough to take the bad with good and still have such a gentle, positive influence on others.
Thank you for reading!
Lx