August 2010 Options

[Guest_bombadil1247_*]

August 2010

The chestnuts dropped early this year
scattered like tiny mines beneath the trees
catching kids walking barefoot unawares.
Retribution was swift; hundreds of shells
were smashed open and the treasures inside
threaded on string - war trophies for display
and final destruction in an orgy of ‘Conkers’.

Summer passed, unnoticed, with no obituary;
the art of reading nature long forgotten
in this pushbutton age that programs time
to suit the schedules of industry and Sky TV.
Automatons and zombies vie for recognition
as archetype of this Brave New World
where technology rules and men obey.

‘Computer Error’ hides a multitude of sins
though computers are only as fallible
as their data clerks – are the seasons out of sync
because of human error? Some would say so
and I won’t argue overmuch; a sin of omission
is still a sin no matter what excuse is offered
nor what tribunals may say in expiation.

Mary died last week and I didn’t know
until her hearse paused outside my door
allowing a silent, last farewell – I had no tears,
just shock and deep regret for all the wasted years
since last we talked of silly things like bus schedules
and dogs’ mess in her garden. Her garden where
white carnations thrived on the love she shared so freely.

They went with her to the crematorium and mourned
when I could not. I lost that right through indifference.

[Eisa]

Hi Jim

This is a strong poem, which I enjoyed immensely. I like the way each stanza takes the reader through a different aspect of life each one leading to the finale, which was a surprise.

The first stanza brought back memories of when my boys were young - playing conkers. Nice bit of nostalgia.

The second & third made me think of the changes technology has brought - and how impersonal life can be at times.

The last stanza hit me hard. It was unexpected, even though I see now how each stanza led to it. I feel stunned after reading it!

I'm sure there is a lot more to this poem than on first read and I'll come back and read it many times. It's deep.

Very good work, Jim! On first read I see nothing to change - I'll return. WEll done!

Snow