Nightfall

 

 

"If your heart was like mine

 You'd get it and be right here."

     Han Shan, "Cold Mountain Poems"

 

 

  

Come too close and you will never get there,

But from a distance and for a moment,

Just as the sun has almost dropped below

That brief and certain sky that cannot stay

Where the hill barely reaches, the last light

Lingering but only if you happen to look up

From exactly here, some ancient part of me

Passes through the pines, crosses the crest

On burning stones growing cold and dark.

Somewhere an owl, somber as a temple bell.





Poetry by countryfog
Read 648 times
Written on 2013-04-18 at 17:24

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As everyone who has ever done any drawing or painting knows, vantage points are important. Objects are perceived differently from different distances and angles. Sometimes we have to backup and put some space between ourselves and what we're observing in order to really see it.

Exquisitely composed poem that has that Eastern feel and tone, but is universal in content.

William
2013-04-19



I love the peaceful mood here, countryfog, the lingering on a moment that imbues such a meditative quality. Always I enjoy travelling on the wings of your poetry, and this flies so effortlessly. Applause!
2013-04-18


shells
There is something so soothing about this piece, I just felt myself sighing as I read it and I mean that in a good way.
2013-04-18



This has the flavor of haiku or tanka, similar in expression, which is beautiful, but more satisfying. I think this form fits your thoughts naturally, easily, as ethereal as haiku, yet rich with the detail and gentleness which you do so well. The opening and closing lines bracket the poem perfectly.
2013-04-18