After the departure
of winter,
of cara caras—
the arrival of white blossoms,
pollen, dusk moths,
bats diving for seconds.
After the departure
of my dark-mute-crash
in your absence—
the arrival of sweet,
prickly pear cactus,
green-purpling in tangelo sun.
After the departure
of cold,
of hibernation—
the arrival of migration,
your ready arms cloaking
the naked-bleed of me.
After the departure
of bleak season,
waning spirit—
the arrival of glittering sky
beyond palm bones—
and my ribboned heart
stitched whole
in the pulse
of your hand.
© 2025 Jennifer Wagner
There is often a tangible sense of place in your poems, Jennifer, that gives them an added depth and perhaps shows us a little bit of your corner of the world. This poem was especially fascinating to me because I haven't missed any human being that much since I was in my 20's, and I didn't realize how I really felt about him until much later. I still miss him now.
ReplyDeleteYes, your recent poems about love and loss and missing someone so profoundly are very moving. Such a passage we humans make through realms of grief. Your poem is very beautiful. The visuals are poignant and evocative - just lovely.
ReplyDeleteSo many wonderful images in your poem and although there is an echo of sadness I find it a fruitful journey - Jae
ReplyDeleteThis poem is visual and emotive. There are so many ways to grieve, and so many reasons for grief. Beautiful writing
ReplyDeleteJust beautiful. I loved the altnernation of the departures with the arrivals, and then the last stanza so creatively tying them all together! Wonderful composition.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gentle, healing poem, Jennifer, and one that does my heart good. The repetitions work their exquisite magic in the reflections of nature's passing seasons.
ReplyDeletelooking at the tags... I wish I knew how to so heal. perhaps yet, poetry might be a way. or not- I haven't determined that yet ~
ReplyDelete