Senryu is a short form of poetry identical in construction to haiku: (three lines with 17 or fewer syllables with a cut after the first or second line forming two related snapshots of an experience of reality), but is generally about human foibles, while haiku references nature. Senryu need not include a kigo, or season word, like haiku (though it seems that much of modern English haiku tends toward senryu; that is, unlike traditional Japanese haiku, it may not necessarily adhere to the 5-7-5 syllable form which may be suitable in Japanese, but which tends to produce long or stilted language in English). A simple rule seems to be, Take a deep breath and read all three lines... cut and all.
I'll offer a couple of examples of my own, however inadequate. Perhaps someone with greater stature would like to add greater insight to this thread.
How I love thee
with breadth, length, depth and height…
but who counts the days?
© MLee Dickens'son 11 Oct 2004
feeling seventeen
your heart pounds out senryu;
you just can’t beat it
© MLee Dickens'son 14 Feb 2004
By the way, I understand that they're often with a bit of humor, so I don't think I'm desecrating the form if I wink a bit.
sharin' a bit o' de Light, Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Thank you for kicking this off and explaining the basic concept of senryu.
with breadth, length, depth and height…
but who counts the days?
Ah! The lovely Christina Rosetti!.
Here is one I have had published.
banner headlines recycled,
bag lady moves on
Following in your footprints Daniel.
Love
Grace
Ah, I love your piece, Grace. Footprints indeed! So now you're going to have to educate me regarding one Christina Rosetti? I must plead ignorance, I'm afraid!
clawprints spread out 'neath
aged, unread, dimming eyes;
reflection on dusk
dim in de Light, Daniel :sun:
Hello Daniel,
I thought you were paraphrasing Christina Rosetti's "How do I love thee?"
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of being and ideal grace.
I love thee to the level of every day's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for right.
I love thee purely, as they turn from praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints. I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life; and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.
One of my favourite romantic poems
Next up
I find a few grapes
in the bottom of the bag
Love
Grace
No wonder I was confused, Grace. You have quoted Elizabeth Barrett Browning... and my piece DID allude to that very sonnet of hers. I still have yet to read your Christina Rosetti. Once you uncross your wires, you'll still have to educate me. I've not read much of EBB yet either, but I hope to in time. May as well add CR to what I need to read!
Here's my follow-up katauta to yours [ See Cleo's Tile re Mondo et al. ]
who'd have de-vined it?
my hungry guest stripped me
of all my grape juice
squeezing myself Lightly, Daniel
Thank you Daniel,
Have been to Cleo's tile and educated myself a little more.
gray thistles dance
a welcome to winter
Love
Grace
Should we put ours together in a Mondo in Cleo's tile, Grace?
wearing stretch tutus
greying dancers shuffle;
time for canasta
... and you still must educate me on Ms Rosetti! I have a former counselee who was a Rosetti... and a man with gangster connections who once threatened my life (who's now deat) who was a Rosetti... and a sister-in-law who was a Rosetti. None of them ever wrote poetry to my knowledge.
deLightingly, Daniel :sun:
Hi Daniel,
Well I have read up on Mondo/Katauta and the formula would seem to be
a question 5-7-7(onji or syllables)= one katauta
followed by and answer 5-7-7 (Onji or syllables)= another katauta
the whole being a Mondo.
If so I must adjust my last piece to read
are the gray thistles dancing
to welcome winter?
If I have that right Daniel, it's over to you. I wait with baited breath.
As for the Rosettis - a very interesting family, far too much info to relate here so have added a link for you.
http://44.1911encyclopedia.org/R/RO/ROSSETTI_CHRISTINA_GEORGINA.htm
Love
Grace
are the gray thistles dancing
to welcome winter?
are really hairy goosebumps;
they need wooly underwear
why are we posting
in this new senryu tile?
don't katauta want Mondo?
[ You can copy and paste this in Mondo/Sedoka, if you like-- with your response, of course... and we can continue bantering there! ]
Meanwhile, back to senryu:
some reason o’er rhyme;
there's neither rhyme nor reason
why some endures time
Hi Daniel,
there's neither rhyme nor reason
why some endures time
Very clever piece and very true!
On a more serious note:
encounters a pea-sized lump;
new born infant wakes
Love
Grace
what a pregnant piece! I could mean MANY things!
fingers unfurl fire
stored up in solitary,
igniting passion
Lightly, Daniel :sun:
Aah! Daniel,
her exploring hand
encounters a pea-sized lump;
new born infant wakes
'Twas more serious than that. The lady who had just given birth was discovering a cancerous lump in her breast. Sounds morbid?? Unfortunately it happens far too often.
Love
Grace
I hope my response wasn't too insensitive, my good friend. I thought that was exactly what it was...
but your language lends itself to several very different directions. I really meant that as a compliment. It's a rememkable little gem you've written.
... and I meant 'pregnant' in the 'huge idea' sense as well as my insufferable word-play.
sLightly embarrassed, Daniel :blush21:
when he's serious
no one seems to believe him;
his eyes still sparkle
Good Morning Daniel,
Oh! No, I wasn't at all upset by your words my friend, I just thought that I had missed getting across the true interpretation of the piece; I thought I hadn't explained it enough.
I think a woman reader would have understood straight away - I'm sorry, I didn't consider that it wouldn't immediately be clear to a man.
Nothing to forgive my friend.
This has happened to a few friends of mine and it is so hard to understand the devastating effect it would have on the mother of a young child.
Love
Grace
Hi Daniel,
no one seems to believe him;
his eyes still sparkle
Love this piece. Just keep those eyes sparkling. The best cure for all ills is laughter
Love
Grace
[b]
I'm pleased that I had not offended, Grace... and again, I DID understand your meaning on the second read or so... before I responded... but again, your excellent piece is worthy of many reads, with many interpretations. It's a remarkable poem.
... and wow, I am pleased that you like my little sparklin' bauble too!
Hi Daniel,
I seem to be pre-occupied with dogs at present. Don't they make great hot water bottles?
comforting her ancient bones
all alone today
Love
Grace
touching piece, Grace!
Would you bite me if I suggested swithching (not with a willow!) the first and third lines?
go cut a long willow wisp...
be sure it's long and sturdy;
prep for punishment
sLightly shivering at the memory, Daniel :sun:
Hello Daniel,
Would you bite me if I suggested swithching (not with a willow! the first and third lines?
Great idea. It's a done deal Daniel!
be sure it's long and sturdy;
prep for punishment
Ouch! Don't forget the book down the trousers!!
Might I suggest to avoid repetition
go cut a fresh willow wisp...
be sure it's long and sturdy;
prep for punishment
Love
Grace
I've now booked my trip
to my woodshed discipline;
glad you saved my seat
Lightly, Daniel :sun:
My pleasure Daniel,
I had four sons and know the consequences of switches, (well in their case it was a slipper from their house master! )
on my window pane
a fly cloud-hops
Happy Tuesday!
Love
Grace
delightful image here, Grace...
Note, however that your last line perhaps needs a hyphen, since it's not the fly-cloud that hops, but the fly that cloud-hops, I assume?
... and I think that distracted needs a semicolon rather than a comma?
contraction...
iamble far to often
I suppose
deLightingly, Daniel
Good to see you up and about Daniel,
I have been up for 5 hours now, soon be time for lunch!
Right on Maestro!
All your assumptions are correct and I will toddle off and correct them now. Don't want a detention ~ I'm getting peckish!
iamble far to often
I suppose
Well, there's no answer to that my friend
Back after a snack.
Love
Grace
de tension...
when your behind must stay put
for attention
when your behind must stay put
for attention
Priceless Daniel!
I follow turtle tracks
across deserted beach
Love Grace
Thanks, Grace... you know I couldn't resist that one... any more than I could resist this to your neat little heads-up package:
moonshine:
cop losing turbo's tracks
on rocks deserting beach
deLightfully, Daniel :sun:
Okay my fiend, (no, not a typo! )
cop losing turbo's tracks
on rocks deserting beach
You play the comic, I'll play the straight guy/gal.
in the sleeping hamlet
a dog howls
I can almost see your reply to this one Daniel!!
Love
Grace
umm... uhhhh... I bet you weren't expecting this, no matter how straight you keep your face:
taste a slippery omelet
called a cat's meow
in a frigid Light, Daniel
Perhaps this, however may be more tasteful?
genuflect to usurper;
Jack Frost spreads his robe
still frigid, but perhaps in a better Light, Daniel :sun:
Hi Daniel :sun:
taste a slippery omelet
called a cat's meow
Sorry Daniel, I only understand the first line of this but suspect the rest is rather unpleasant? Alluding to poor food supplies?
genuflect to usurper;
Jack Frost spreads his robe
This is so beautiful Daniel.
skein of Canada Geese heading south;
feathered arrows
Love
Grace
Hi daniel and Cybele
I have just noticed this senyru thread and thought I'd join in, as I have written a few which I think are senryu.
This is one I think Daniel has read before
tears can bathe the soul;
cleansing rivulets will heal,
life’s dirt washed away.
deep scars may remain
where festering sores have burst;
time will overcome.
Hope I've done it right!
Snow
Yipee, :dance: Snow's come out to play,
Lovely to see you here Eisa.
cleansing rivulets will heal,
life’s dirt washed away.
deep scars may remain
where festering sores have burst;
time will overcome.
You know that both pieces have touched my heart Eisa, beautiful!
Love Grace
wounds may disappear
with tender love’s oversight;
healing takes its time
[b]Good morning Daniel,
with tender love’s oversight;
healing takes its time
Thank you for the lovely thought. First thing I saw this morning.
blind beggar;
stick tapping on stones
worn by its touch
Love
Grace
Thank you, my friend!
stick tapping on stones
worn remember his touch
... and I feel this piece painfully clearly, but try as I might, I cannot see the meaning of the last line...tap, tap, tap ???
me worn old rememberer
feels numbed by your lines
Sorry Daniel,
I woke at 4.30am and couldn't get back to sleep. This was a very early posting and I put in the wrong words from my workpad.
I have now changed it. Hope it reads better?
in the summer house,
breakfast with Bizet
Love
Grace
I KNEW there must have been something amiss, Grace. Thank you for substantiating further my confidence in your clarity!
Now you can share with me the nuance of specifying one Bizet? I'm sure that's special in some way. K?
Here's my impressionistic follow-up:
dazed by trazodone,
grey cheeks mirror cold window;
breakfast with Eileen
Lightly unshaven, Daniel
Hello Daniel,
grey cheeks mirror cold window;
breakfast with Eileen
This is oh, so poignant Daniel. Is it based on truth? It speaks to me of a very tender love for Eileen. Hauntingly beautiful.
Now to Georges Bizet. I love opera Daniel and I have a CD of Bizet's 'Carmen' with my favourite singer Placido Domindo singing the lead role of Don Jose. My sons built me a summer house in my minuscule back garden and on sunny mornings I love to sit in the sunshine drinking coffee and listening to that glorious voice. The summerhouse faces due East so I am bathed in sunshine from about 6am onwards. It is my haven of peace.
barefoot in the garden
I wash my hair
Love
Grace
Thank you so much, Grace. Yes, it was the very moment as I was writing, just before moving into the kitchen to actually see my unshaven face in the window while eating a cheese omelet with wheat toast and apricot preserves, while Eileen had her raisin bran. We had apple juice... and I generally don't drink coffee at home, but am in charge of the coffee pot at work.
Your 'summer house' sounds enchanting. Might I assume that it is not what we'd call a 'house'? Whatever it is, it sounds downright enchanting!
... and your Sing-a-pour piece is even more enchanting. I think you've almost slipped quite wonderfully into haiku... as I believe you did a few senryu back. Whether you did or not, it's a beautiful piece of poetry... and the form is identical!
donning Army greys
he stares down a brisk fall wind;
window keeps him warm
sLightly snug, Daniel
Hello Daniel,
he stares down a brisk fall wind;
window keeps him warm
I am intrigued by this piece Daniel. I see this as someone getting into uniform and staring out of the window before venturing into the cold day ?
Do I assume you are in what we call over here the Territorial Army (or Army Reserve i.e a week-end soldier?)
child carries the moon home
in a rusty bucket
Love
Grace
<font color='#000000'>Thank you for the response, Grace. I'm glad that the piece engenders that picture as well as the one that I intended... only slightly different.
The Army greys are the workout or PT (Pysical Training) uniform. I find it quite comfortable to wear about the house, so I had donned the long-sleeve set and was portraying myself as though I was literally staring down the wind ready to head into it on a run... but actually staring at it through the warmth of a window... kind of as in your summer house... and going nowhere.
Here in the US there is the Regular or Active Army, the Army Reserve, and the Army National Guard. The latter, though part of the "One Army" system is also capable of being activated by each state at the will of the governor for State Active Duty... which often happens during disasters, floods, etc.
Over 3000 from our NJ Army National Guard, however, are presently serving on Active Duty in places like Iraq, Eastern Europe, Afghanistan and the Sinai, plus here guarding bases and such in the U.S. I am the only NJ Army Guard chaplain stateside from NJ at present besides one who serves on "Title 10" Active duty at Ft. Dix nearby. The others are with their troops overseas or training to go there. We're a bit stretched, honestly.
I've not been eligible to do PT for the past two years, but I was medically cleared to resume it a few months ago... which also makes me eligible to be deployed, the medical officer reminded me!
Hey Daniel and Grace
You are both very good at this, and I am enjoying learning from your vast array of talent here.
Here's one I wrote when I was thinking about my autistic son
disability
first appearances deceive
look beyond the shell
peel the layers away
search deep inside the kernel
- the essence is found.
Snow
Hey, Snow! Great to have you drop in to learn along with us.
I think this is an excellent pair of senryu, substantially. I only see an extra syllable and an unnecessary use of the passive voice. As you suggested yourself elsewhere, you may punctuate differently too.
Here's a possible:
disability:
first appearances deceive;
look beyond the shell
peel (the) layers away;
search deep inside the kernel(-) to find the essence (is found.)
Whatcha think, Snow? ... and Grace?
sharin' a bit o' Light, Daniel
Good morning Daniel,
dad trips over son’s toy pail,
then kicks the bucket
Three emotions in two thoughts! dread, comic revenge, dead!!!
This one really stirs the emotions doesn't it? Fascinating Daniel.
long autumn shadows
but where is yours ?
Love
Grace
Why! good morning Eisa,
How lovely to see you here.
Daniel will tell you that I easily get confused around this forum, so I will wait for you to reply to his crit before jumping in and joining the melee
It's lovely to see you here. I have fallen in love with Japanese verse and spend a great deal of time here. My mind doesn't seem able to cope with a longer poem at present, so I keep myself busy this way!!
I will be back when you have replied. I hope the sun is shining in your world my friend.
Love
Grace
Hello Daniel,
If I'm correct in my assumption, with some adjustments you could transform this into the first katauta of a mondo... and reply with comforting words froom your memory of your beloved. Whatcha think? Whatever you do, this is a keeper
A very good idea Daniel. Will do that. Yes, I talk to him all the time, just as if he were here, and generally I feel that he is ~ but occasionally I think he goes walkabout, and I suddenly feel bereft. Then, at my lowest I feel a sudden warmth and know that he has returned to me.
tracing buildings through a fog;
London derrière
A very rare occurrence now since the smokeless fuel law was introduced years ago Daniel. We called it smog (smoke and fog).
Just thought I would let Eisa digest your suggestions first yankee doodle pal of mine
Love
Grace
I know, Grace. Just practicin' with my epee on ya!
... and did you not see the allusion to "Londonderry Air" Do I have to write about the London Dairy air to get your attention? ... or were you just snubbing your Brit nose at this Yankee's thoughts? :read:
splashing at the air
epeeing tirelessly;
stress relieved
streaming away Lightly, Daniel :sun:
Ha Ha Daniel,
Now would I do a thing like that my friend. No I was only thinking of the backside of London, which I am always very glad to see when returning to the glories of Somerset. I missed the Londonderry air. one of my favourite songs too!! How remiss of me.
epeeing tirelessly;
stress relieved
This, on the other hand is not quite as subtle I feel.
Here is another one for you to get you teeth into Daniel.
clustered together, heads bowed
critiquing the sermon
Love
Grace
P.S Am just going to post the solo/mondo as suggested.
Here you are Daniel,
Have fun!
I find long-lost sunglasses
where are my gloves?
Love
Grace
clustered together, heads bowed
critiquing the sermon
Now that is one to chew on a bit!
none is so cloistered
that she'd not turn on frier;
grit battered chicken
I find long-lost sunglasses
where are my gloves?
hmmmm
secretly dipped gloves
in fat to smear sunglasses;
finger-lickin' gooed
sLightly blurry, Daniel
Hello there Daniel nd Grace
Your verses have me fascinated -- tugging my heart strings and making me smile. :cloud9:
I must say this form does appeal to me -- intriguing at times. I don't think I can ever keep up with you two, but you are keeping my interest.
Thanks for your suggestions Daniel -- much improved. I think I was pronouncing `layers' as one syllable as some people do -- but I usually don't. it's the punctuation I feel a bit lost with -- then I always am
Here's one I wrote after reading about Grace's walk
my favourite walk:
by a stream beneath the trees;
sit to contemplate
See you soon
Snow
So good to see you thinkin' and feelin' in here along with us, Snow!
drifting wherever she may;
sparkles for dawning
Now, as to your struggles with punctuation... and your thought-provoking piece...
Good Morning Eisa,
by a stream beneath the trees;
sit to contemplate
Oh that punctruation Eisa, don't I know about that?? NO !!
No, but seriously, I have gradually learned that serious haiku writers don't bother with punctuation these days relying on the wording to indicate the break between two separate thoughts.
Having said that, I am still so new to this that I don't always have the confidence to leave out at least a semi-colon.
As Daniel says, Haiku should be written so that the whole thing can be read aloud in one breath.
If like me, while learning you need the prop of a semi-colon, make sure that it separates your two dis-similar, but linked thoughts. So your lovely piece would read.
by a stream beneath the trees;
sit to contemplate
The only other point I would make Eisa, is that the picture you present should ALWAYS be in the present and leave something for the reader to work out. For your last line therefore, how about...
by a stream beneath the trees;
deep reflection
This last line now conveys your mood as well as linking itself to the stream.
Just a thought, Chuck or choose.
Daniel's reply of course is brilliant. Not only does his wit put a smile on your face, it also encourages you to keep writing.
Love
Grace
Hey, y'all...
This is poor, but my mind is drifting back to bed. I'd fallen asleep in the living room, woke up to take meds and go to bed, and now they're kicking in...
Hi Sleepy head
on sea bed in diving bell;
deep reflection
Sounds like a presage of my forthcoming holiday in Jamaica Daniel, but I'm no diving belle, although I can't wait to go snorkelling on the reefs.
I'd fallen asleep in the living room, woke up to take meds and go to bed,
Doesn't that always get you? Over here if you are admitted to hospital, apart from being ill, you are generally very tired and just when you have fallen into a peaceful sleep ~ they wake you up to give you a sleeping pill.
Love
Grace
did Jamaica cake
to send off your holiday?
belles still knead to wring!
... darn, and I can't even swim the length of a pool! I'd have to have my grandsons' swimmies or a life jacket to join ya!
now...
dive into another before you fly off!
deLightingly, Daniel :sun:
Hi Daniel,
Not off till 14th December!. This is a Christmas holiday. We return on New Year’s Eve ~ leaving Jamaica at 11.45pm (which means, unfortunately we will cross five time zones, so we will have to celebrate New Year 6 times. :oops: I don’t think I need worry about jet lag.
Meanwhile:
superglued to a power tool
buy new ear plugs
Love
Grace
superglued to a power tool
buy new ear plugs
on house and garage
implant surround sound speakers;
scare with raceway tapes
Hi Daniel,
implant surround sound speakers;
scare with raceway tapes
Can you enlighten me? What are raceway tapes?
wearing my marigold gloves
conducting the bells
Love
Grace
Raceway tapes would be sounds from a race track: racing cars or motorcycles... as though they were flying through the space between your property and your neighbor's. That ought bring him out to see who's disturbin' his power toolin'!
I'll be back to comment on your SUPERB senryu, Grace...
we're off to see Ray
deLightingly, Daniel
Thanks for the explanation Daniel.
Happily this was fictitious, I have very quiet neighbours.
how hushed the spring morning
peopled by ants
Love
Grace
ah, Grace... now you're shaming me with REAL senryu! Wonderful job.
My mind is presently a bit fuddled. I cannot picture anything so uniquely at the moment.
I'll be back... but for now, back to bed.
deLightingly, Daniel :sun:
Hello Daniel,
Hope you are feeling a little brighter.
The hot air balloon one was easy. It was a wedding anniversary present from Ralph. He had a dread of flying and wouldn't ascend, but followed us in the car. That year it rained every single day of May and on 1st and 2nd June.
I dreaded waking on the morning of the 3rd. The flight was at 6.30am.
When I drew back the curtains the sun was shining brilliantly! I shall never forget the experience. After we had landed it started raining again and on the next day, and for the rest of that week. we had torrential rain! Talk about serendipity.
performing Zorba’s dance
carousing husband
Love
Grace
hmmm
Not sure that I fully understand this one, Grace. Could you clarify the picture for me? Sounds like someone's husband is contemplating crossing the line?
husband breathtaken;
mooning on South Jersey beach
caught with his pants up
re the wonderful balloon portrayal, it's certainly more than hot air (though I'm bettin' it was, up there... even if it was cold!).
good Ralph didn't shout
"to the moon, Grace;to the moon!"
with you crammed in there
Honeymooning Lightly, Daniel :sun:
P.S. If you don't know of Jackie Gleason, you may need an explanation?
Hello Daniel,
Ralph and I spent many wonderful holidays on the Greek islands.
'Zorba the Greek' was a very famous film starring Anthony Quinn, who performed Zorba's dance on the beach after having 'taken drink'.
When we visited the island of Kos we celebrated a wedding anniversary. It was the night of the full moon or as the Greeks say ,luna fengari. (that might not be the correct spelling because I have only heard it spoken and not seen it written down.)
Ralph, who was a great fan of Quinn decided to entertain me wih his own version of Zorba's dance. It was early evening so we weren't yet too inebriated. We finished up rolling in the sand laughing our heads off. Wonderful memory!
good Ralph didn't shout
"to the moon, Grace;to the moon!"
with you crammed in there
I have heard of Jackie Gleason. Wasn't he a child star in silent movies who became a comedian? We seem to be starting a school of movie memorabilia here don't we? But you need to enlighten me on the reference in this piece please.
Love
Grace
Sounds like you had a wonderful time, Grace! YOUR Ralph was very different from the Jackie Gleason character Ralph Cramden in "The Honeymooners"
http://concise.britannica.com/ebc/article?tocId=9365679
born Feb. 26, 1916, Brooklyn, N.Y., U.S.
died June 24, 1987, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
U.S. comedian and actor.
orig. Herbert John Gleason He performed in carnivals and nightclubs and later played minor roles in films and on the stage. He achieved success in the television comedy series Cavalcade of Stars (1950–52), The Jackie Gleason Show (1952–59, 1961–70), and The Honeymooners (1955–56), which centred on his most beloved character, bus driver Ralph Kramden. He starred on Broadway in Take Me Along (1959, Tony Award) and received acclaim for his screen performances in The Hustler (1961), Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962), and Soldier in the Rain (1963). He later was featured in Smokey and the Bandit (1977) and its sequels (1980, 1983).
One of his famous outbursts to his wife during their frequent 'arguments' was "To the Moon, Alice' to the moon!" with his fist held 'threateningly.' Of course he never launched her!
Perhaps now you understand what I crammed in to my little senryu?
Here's one that occurred to me last evening in a National Alliance for the Mentally Ill training:
never suture self; not just
Band-Aids that stick
sLightly sterile, Daniel :sun:
Hello Daniel,
Thank you for the info on Jackie Gleason. I seem to remember him as a very large bluff, dark-haired man. Never saw him act but I think I remember seeing a documentary about him, but that must have been about 20 years ago.
never suture self; not just
Band-Aids that stick
Very sobering one Daniel, especially after my inebriated one!
I have been having trouble getting onlne over the past 24 hours. I have just changed over to Broadband and sometimes it goes off for hours at a time. The good side thought is that is about 500 times faster than dial-up.
This one is seasonal and fictitious
glancing back at my footprints
I am sorry
Toodle pip
Grace
Hmmm
Maybe there's a message there? "Broad Banned" ?
Now you're senryu... I love it! Excellent, vivid picture. Darn close to a haiku, but definitely a senryu. The best kind, methinks.
Maybe this will tell ya somethin' about why I've been so scarce of late:
brown stuff comin' out
has stuck-to-the-ribs flavor;
much too phlegm-boyant
sLightly sick, Daniel :ghostface:
Good morning Daniel,
has stuck-to-the-ribs flavor;
much too phlegm-boyant
Yuck! Too much information Daniel!! :rofl:
Still, as we say over here "Better out, than in." :jester:
This one is a happy childhood memory
the deep contented silence
measured by milestones
Love
Grace
Hey, Grace...
I hope you'll forgive me for this, since your piece has a beautiful taste of nostalgia... but it stirred somehow in me (mused by the word-play on summer) that evil muse that so detests the stay-behind Canada Geese!
some’re journeying…
yet leave great gaggles… behind-
barking out bilestones
© MLee Dickens’son 27 Nov 2004
sLightly choking, Daniel :sun:
Hi Daniel,
yet leave great gaggles… behind-
barking out bilestones
Good to see you back and this is up to your usual excellent standard, but to use your expression...darn! isn't this supposed to be senryu, not faux-ku?
How about a serious piece that I can reply to? Your faux-ku are far too clever for me and certainly not my forte.
Over to you for senryu. Huh? that rhymes :speechless:
unintentional, not conventional.
Love
Grace
<font color='#000000'>:cheer: Thanks for the prod, Grace... and for your visit over yonder too!
I knew it was a faux-ku... but also a legit (though a bit low-life) senryu if you note that the Canada Geese [ Use your imagination; the dragon is the closest Cleo has given us! ] are flying away with it, leaving a not-so-innocent senryu for you.
But... I just wrote this... and interrupted myself in the process to print it and fly out the door to give it to her... as she heads back to PA to be with her groom of 8 months, carrying a 7-week surprise she discovered a few weeks ago!
Good morning Daniel,
with sweet raspberry-sized child;
another surprise
I am so glad you caught her before she returned home. I am sure she will treasure this for her child - quite beautiful.
I too was an unplanned child I have found out. It doesn’t seem to have done me any harm. It’s what happens after you are born that counts isn’t it? But on the other hand, I don’t really believe in accidents. I think there is a purpose for everything.
fine feathered friends sail away;
alone with my fear
Love
Grace
Hello Daniel,
last of the breadcrumbs
fine feathered friends sail away;
alone, with my fear
This another divide thing Daniel. This is a perfectly normal English phrase. It wouldn't sound right to my ears to use any of your helpful alternatives. Have included a comma in the last line which might help with the interpretation.
Love
Grace
Hi Daniel,
Here is the one you thought you had read, but in fact I only wrote it three days ago.
summer romance;
all that remains on the beach,
a wilting red rose
Love
Grace
Well, I do think you wrote something like it somewhere... or I coalesced a couple of your previous poems in my mind somehow! Anyway... I love the intrigue and softness in this one. It ain't wiltin' fer sher!
I'll share my riposte here:
some 're romance...
and some 're not; ask petals ~ ~
so... wilt thou... or naught?
pluckin' Lightly, Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Well, I don't know about you but I am running myself ragged at present, trying to do too many things before I go away.
and some 're not; ask petals;
so... wilt thou, or not?
Very clever. Your last line sounds positively Shakespearian Daniel
Love
Grace
on the backs of his trousers;
first job interview
on the backs of his trousers;
first job interview
Very graphic, Grace! ... and believe me, I KNOW what you mean about tryin' to do too many things... but we is musin' pomes, ain't we! Jest take yer time, Lady! This thread ain't goin' no place. It'll be here when ya gets back! LorII ain't got tired o' us yet!
my wife's body talc
on the back of my trousers;
lost job interview
brushin' it off Lightly, Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Still can't read that pale blue. Could you try another colour next time?
my wife's body talc
on the back of my trousers;
lost job interview
Swift and witty Daniel.
This just happened as I look out of the window while listening to the radio.
the morning starts
pink clouds, black birds, fine morning;
another train crash
Off out again now, back later.
Love
Grace
pink clouds, black birds, fine morning[...]
another train crash
Very sad, Grace... that's why I listen to a light, uplifting local morning broadcast as I'm readying for work... where I oughta be headin' now!
ignoring my work,
it's about to arrest me;
I'd better catch up
© Daniel J Ricketts 03 Dec 2004
Headin' to the showers. Catch ya tomorrow, maybe!
Daniel
appears I'm dammed if I do
and damned if I don't
Hello Daniel,
Yes, I was tempted to put that 'u' in morning, but it would have pre-empted the shock of the last line.
ignoring my work,
it's about to arrest me;
I'd better catch up
Smug, smug ~ I am glad I no longer have that problem Daniel (age has to have some compensations ~ apart from free prescriptions for medicine ! )
wherever my face...
appears I'm dammed if I do
and damned if I don't
Explanation needed here Daniel, I have my stupid head on this morning.
Hello Daniel,
This is a revision. I originally posted it with too many syllable on the first line and have only just noticed it.
darting dragonfly
a blue speck on the rushes-
twinkle in God’s eye
Greetings, dragonfly!
It's always refreshing to exchange with you, Grace. :)
Requested explanation: I was feeling like sludge. Sometimes my experimentation with form is seen as frivolous and demeaning, and I'd crossed a couple of good friends' boundaries (elsewhere), without meaning to do so... again! It's how I FELT in the aftermath. Sometimse feelings reflect reality, and sometimes they don't. But when you find yourelf on the wrong side of a boundary, it's both intrusive to the other party and embarrassing to you. Being shoved back over the line hurts, and FEELS like being shut out [dammed]. And the when the resulting feelings produce inaction through depression, you may end up feeling as though you've also been rejected [damned].
Poets express their feelings. Sometimes I have done that too freely... or too soon. Once that's been done, it seems it can't be taken back; the damage is done. Maybe some day I'll learn.
As to your piece, it's wonderful! I love the twinkle. It's a great reminder.
Here's the other side of the story, using another of God's creatures more familiar to me to illustrate looking at life forgetting God's twinkling eye:
ducking in slime pit
may well smooth ruffled feathers…
but makes flying tough
© MLee Dickens’son 08 Dec 2004
tryin' to recapture deLight, Daniel
Hello Daniel,
Goodness me! You musn't let the world get to you like that. I certainly don't feel that way about our exchanges here. Yours are very witty and that is your style.
My only concern is that if perhaps you put in the odd serious one in a different vein, then maybe my old brain would be sparked with inspiration as well.
Sometimes it is possible to reply in faux-ku, but it is not my forte (I'll leave that to the expert).
Pieces like the one about your unexpected daughter would probably give me something to bounce off.
All is well Daniel my friend.
ducking in slime pit
may well smooth ruffled feathers…
but makes flying tough
This is very funny (if somewhat messy ~ the sludge, not the haiku, ) so you do what you are best at and I'll muddle along learning.
learning's always fun
till someone pops your balloon;
frowns drown out a smile
send up another;
fill a grey sky with bubbles
to lilt dragonflies
bubbles rise above
hot air spouted by fools;
smile and rise
Thanks, Grace...
and it doesn't need to be a fool, either. Even very wise or generally intelligent folk and otherwise sensitive persons can spout hot air betimes. God knows I've had my share of heated words!
But let us pursue a different course now...
men and rivers wind
through paths of least resistance;
makes for some real crooks
ploddin' straight ahead, Lightly, Daniel
Hi Daniel,
through paths of least resistance;
makes for some real crooks
Very deep, Daniel
a child’s crimson kite
trapped in a tall poplar;
winter blossom
trapped in a tall poplar;
winter blossom
Wavin' back!
waving from greening apple;
Charlie Brown's spring bane
Lightly headin' back to bed, Daniel :sun:
Hi Daniel.
waving from greening apple;
Charlie Brown's spring bane
Ah, Charlie Brown, my favourite cartoon with my absolute hero, SNOOPY!!!
sunshine on the pond;
my goldfish lip the surface
to swallow the warmth
I hope you'll forgive me for this one, Grace.
As you paint this picture of your fish pond and the open-mouthed visits of your fish (usually in recognition of your presence, expecting to be fed, or hopefully not gasping for exygen in a pond that needs aeration), I couldn't help but slip into this off-beat reflection as a riposte:
Hello, I'm following Cleo's suggestion for New Year and exploring the sights (sites?) of MM, and impressive they are.
I tentatively add my first senryu:
Revised 7th Jan 2005 (thank you, Grace):
her universe within words;
dinner burns again.
original:
her universe within words;
dinner is burnt again.
It's a joy just reading thru the tiles here. Thanks.
Fran
Hi Fran
What a lovely burnt offering this is. A clever self-referential (both in the sense of the poet and the verse-form) piece. If only King Alfred could have written thus.
Very humerous too - how so much can be (lunch)-packed into so little.
Also good to see "her" - we are so used to seeing male poet references... makes one think - good change.
I think your centralised universe is beautifully poised and well-worth some carbonisation. (Nice to be able to sacrifice some one else's meal!)
Well done - enjoyed this. James.
PS Glad you've found a new muse and that you're trying the various delights available for the poetic salad (hot food off menu for moment).
Muse it or lose it - and you've got it!
James.
Hi James,
Thank you for such kind encouragement.
My new muse was a surprise discovery - awakened talent in a lost maid called Cinderella - since the incineration she has, alas, become Cinder, for short: that's why I'm now writing senryu.
As for the dinner, it was ruined; we had to get a takeaway instead - chicken tarka (like chicken tikka, only a little 'otter).
And some fruit cake for afterwards.
Cheers,
Fran
Good morning Fran,
Just back from my holiday and browsing around I come across this...
I tentatively add my first senryu:
The poet centres
her universe within words;
dinner is burnt again.
It's great to see you here Fran, I hope you too will fall in love with Haiku/senryu as I have.
This is great with a delightful twist of comedy which made me laugh
Just one tiny suggestion, the last line is one syllable long. Perhaps you could leave out the word 'is', and I think you'll find it will read even better.
Brilliant first attempt. I hope you stick around here and the Haiku tiles Fran.
hoar-frosted cobweb,
Titania’s lace veil
Welcome back from your holiday, Grace.
Thank you for your comments on my attempt. I will have to practice my counting - no doubt my daughter (6) will take great delight in the fact that her mother is struggling with 5 and 7.
Is it a chilly shock to be back with icy cobwebs after the sun? (Although our cobwebs have been blown away overnight by the gales).
A beautiful evocation of a still winter's woodland morning. These tiles are full of inspiration.
Thanks,
Fran
Fran
The poet centres
her universe within words;
dinner burnt again.
I like it. Very succinct and true.
Perry
Grace,
fairy woodland:
hoar-frosted cobweb,
Titania’s lace veil
This is splendid! (I know you know much of the following but for the record...)
I take it personally, too... if I may. Our late dogs, who inspited my Haiku cycle, and to whom it is dedicated, were Mustardseed and Cobweb, named from faries in Shakespeare's "Midsummer Night's Dream."
Titania is Queen of the faries in that play, which takes place in the Forest of Arden (Fairy Woodland).
Wonderful work, grace, magical. Thank you.
James.
Hello James.
I am just pausing for a few minutes to catch up on MM before I dash off again.
I am glad you liked this piece. Yes, inspired by the great man himself.
I also notice a nod toward Mishca in 'Why donkeys cheat at cards' if I'm not (misch)taken? I haven't forgotten my promise to come back to you on that. I shall do so as soon as I have five minutes to spare.
Hi Grace,
Thank you for your kindness. No compulsion to pop into Donkeys/cards but if you do find time, I would much appreciate it.
Dogs - yes: Mustardseed and Cobweb (twin sisters) were with us for almost sixteen years to New Year 2001. Six months later, Hugo, Mischa and Lyric joined us. Hugo dies in April, 2004 - sad but he was 13.5 - a good innings for a King Charles. Misch is about 12 and Lyric 9. For those interested, if you click the link to my web site (below) a picture of Mischa and Lyric will appear on the gateway page.
Talking of web site, I've been very busy and, after returning home from a trip - next week we're back - I will upload poems by Alan and yourself which you kindly said I could ages ago and have not found time yet. Other updating needed, too.
Thanks for the dreamy poem, Grace.
An interesting illustration of how poetry can mean so many different things to different people. J.
doves coo over urn:
'Here rests Marshall Lee Dickens'
son reads eulogy
fingers unfurl fire
stored up in solitary;
passions ignite
© MLee Dickens'son 04 Jan 2005
Hi Daniel,
I missed this somehow - lovely steamy alliteration
stored up in solitary;
passions ignite
acceleration:
relishing the empty road;
speed camera flashes
© Toumai, 2005
Hi Daniel -
1. A good tribute to the poet
2. I can't quite decide is this is erotica or a tribute to Promethius. Either way, it works well. Sorry, what was that? Neither? Oh well they both worked as, no doubt did the original meaning too.
Well done.
James.
Fran, Hi!
"acceleration:
relishing the empty road;
speed camera flashes"
Serves the narrator right! The modern evil - speeding on roads!
An ex-friend of mine (we simply lost contact - probably too fast for me) was "done" by the Boys In Blue a few years ago for speeding. It was about 3am in Gwent (Wales) and he was doing about 150 mph in his Porsche down the M4 (a major motorway). Under the sodium arc-lights he saw blue flashing lights a couple of miles back. By the time they caiught him he was doing 80mph (limit = 70mph) He claimed he wasn't speeding (much) but they had radar print-outs from sensors he'd passed along the road, flashed to control then the patrol car. He was let off lightly - £1,000 fine and banned for six months (because he was returning from a funeral).
So I love the technology. But wait until I'm caught one day - won't like it then. I honestly do try to keep to the limits but mistakes are so easy to make.
That's my crit of your poem. Precise and clever: reminded me of that story. Well done. No suggestions. Most enjoyable.
James.
wide-angle lenses
give photographer more space;
good for lazy butts
© MLee Dickens’son 22 Feb 2005
Original
wide-angle lenses
bring photographer in close;
good for lazy butts
Hi Daniel,
bring photographer in close;
good for lazy butts
Dare I suggest Daniel, that you would need zoom lenses for this purpose?
give photographer more space;
good for lazy butts
Dare I suggest Daniel, that you would need zoom lenses for this purpose?
Not if one is writing about the SUBJECT of the shot!
Lightly, Daniel
... butt... of course you're right, Grace! I've modified your quotation to reflect the 'corrected lens' :cheer:
zoom lenses quicken
the heartbeat of a moment;
arouse your voyeur
© Daniel J Ricketts 22 Feb 2005
Hi Daniel,
the heartbeat of a moment;
arouse your voyeur
Precisely what the rear-view mirror did Daniel!!! :blush21:
Of course I knew that, Grace. I was writing to tell you that! :wink:
always deLighting to exchange with you, Daniel
tandem poetry
mounts butt near half the effort;
one steers both wryders
© MLee Dickens'son 22 Feb 2005
riders on tandem
sustain major head trauma;
staff tossed through front spokes
© MLee Dickens’son 28 March 2005
silhouette
black net kept her in
where everything wanted out;
bawdy-stocking dance
© MLee Dickens'son 29 June 2005
I am… you are the Light
you are puzzling...
pieces needing connection;
I am the big picture
faith sees my image;
assembling my boundaries
a body takes shape
you each interact
sharing what I’ve imparted;
my visage gives Light
© MLee Dickens'son 02 Sept 2007
a worship reflaction...
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%208:12;&version=31;, http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205:14,%2014,%2015;&version=31;
increase wardrobe
by dusting off old threads...
a light senryu
a blight, senryu
I can't tell from damn haiku
an age-old problem
Alan
Now, what's the betting this is NOT a sen ?
basic senryu:
juxtaposed snapshots
in one line and two
Just a posed snapshot.
Why the Facebook exposure
total overkill ?
Alan
just suppose
it is an accident...
pix catch the act
Pix will catch the cat
in social embarrassment;
now's time to cleanse fur
Alan
fer cleansin' sake
try dippin' in the stream;
catfish eat slime
Drat ! Fish-feed time
throw cat in aquarium
then go back to sleep ....
Alan
throw-back can't count sheep...
hasn't learned that http://www.serta.com/Serta-Sheep-Counting-Sheep-Buy-a-Serta-mattress-Count-Sheep-No-More.html
put them out of work
The work-out put them
at the end of their rope. Climb
into the steam room.
Into the steam room,
then get on with the sweating
til half the man you were
Alan
eggs, mine simply boiled
mark the true progress of man :
assault'n'battery
Alan
the sultan's battery
died before his alarm rang;
disk-on-tent
Disco was intense
after the rock-n-rollin'
downhill from that point
skiing's on the up
despite what you all think;
olympics are down
Alan
modern Olympics
aggrandized professionals
amateurs lose out
embouchure too loose
to produce the right sound:
blat, squeak, squawk
bats sqeak squawk
to a purpose, flying blind
predating radar
Alan
radar shows a blip
weather ballons travel fast
are you Sirius
Planet fall :
a Sirius collision
with Uranus
Alan
would you rein us in?
we write like horses running
free in the valley
free, in the Valley
girls with great bodies and teeth
but lacking a brain
Alan
Brains are optional
gene pools become more shallow
grading on the curve
grading on the curve
enhanced by Verona Beach
silly cows' silicone
Alan
sell cows silicone
udderly ridiculous
plastic keeps milk fresh
slapstick refreshes
mediocre comedy;
ionic humor
Humerus ions
electrify the elbows
with shocking laughter
with such shocked laughter
we may well change the whole world
only for the worse ....
Alan
only for their verse
would poets have us believe
it is the refrain
it is the refrain
from smoking that will kill you
puffing is easy ....
Alan
roughage goes easy;
after huffage and puffage
it is some relief
it is some relief
that the Parthenon Elgins
are safe in England
Alan
safe in England
holds Parthenon Marbles;
have we all lost ours?
losing our marbles
we join the rest of the world
in certain circles
uncertain circles
evolve into ovals;
sun attraction
some attraction
p'raps a bit more repulsion
he thinks he loves her
Alan
stinking at love --
a hand-made fur coat
of mink and skunk
skunk or mink fur
may be a way to weasel
out of offences
out-house offenses
hidden from the public;
case-load buried
buried in case loads
lawyers looking for retorts
fabricate file piles
brief fabricates "truth"
totally one-sided view
the jury's still out
Alan
the jury's still
is drained of moonshine;
they're still out... cold
stills out in the cold
make better shine that's high priced
due to the coppers
dew from the crappers
spoiled the water table;
stills unaffected
still son affected
by too much of a good thing
moon shines but son's out
moon finds sun rays
reflecting on their warmth;
man dreams beneath
man dreams beneath
his snuggle-tight warm duvet
despite snores of wife ....
Alan
despot wife snores
through her husband's protests;
congested air weighs
congested air waves
so full of propaganda
Krauts starting a war ....
Alan
kraut stirred in a wok
fuse unsavory cultures
far-east fascists
furrier faces
lawsuit for lion;
no escape claws
no escape, Claus
chimney is Santa trap;
fatten the goose
Alan
frightening goose
when Claus alit on poker;
a royal flush
auroral flash
orbicular holed flight path
soot and suit, sans sleigh
suit and boot, sans tie
you will get it in the neck
forgetful, is all
Alan
forgetful as Saul:
you cannot remain the king
without annointing
Without an oinking
piglets search for mother's milk
from tail to pig's tie
tale of the pig sty:
drop in any time
and you'll be eaten
to be yule beaten
plunge into a Swedish spa
for steam and a bough
a stream 'neath the bough
where we fished away summer;
our toes were bait
tiny toes are great
in our new born - perfection
the world keeps turning
Alan
the wild keep turning
themselves into vampires --
it's blood-curdling
it's bloody curding
she's cheddar skin without gloves
and that's not gouda
probably better as a faux-ku
titled Eat-um
gouda is not cheese
forcing smile for rubber ball
regurgitating
Alan
re gurgitation:
please don't bring it up
for disgustion
ford escutcheon
embellishes coat of arm-or
around the driver
a round - the driver
then use niblick, putter
if you wanna green
Alan
you want agreein'
select one who knows, not nos
brown colors work best
brown color works best
because that is what you get
mixing all others
Alan
Mick sings and lathers
with his barbarshop quartet --
close harmonic shaves
Brilliant, Daniel !
harmony enslaves
while disharmony entraps
know your sharps and flats
Alan
know that sharps cause flats;
be careful about running
over broken glass
over broken glass
such is the sound of my voice
period of silence ...
Alan
pier rids the silence
ears fill with squawks and thunder
gulls and oceans wave
gulls and ocean
greet shoobies to the shore...
a splash from each
a splash from each limb
a very large belly-flop
diverse expertise
Alan
his verse expertise
has yet to click in;
many a clunker
many a lunker
leaps out of it's element
fisherman's debate
grand fishing debate
re the one that got away
did it reproduce ?
Alan
fisherman debaits
efficacy of drag lines;
grievances redressed
ask doddering son
if aging body fails him
or just aged spirits
aged spirits best
for wisdom, also imbibed
here is to your health
Alan
hair's to ewer health
as worms are to spaghetti
indigestible
Indie vestibule -
where you enter to pray
the last lap laps best
the cat's tongue laps best
consists of endless buckets
grants more sleeping time
Alan
Grant drank sleepy-time
but it sure wasn't tea;
he was a hard man
I heard Manny was
phobic and fighting against
uni-sex marriage
under-sexed marriage
causes many a problem;
can't put them to bed
can't put them to bed ?
so put them to sleep instead
uppercuts rule
Alan
upper crust rule:
don't burn the top slice
of a grilled cheese
offer grilled goat's cheese
but also make sure butter
is captively staked
Alan
if captive is staked
he'll be a good investment;
put him in business
stake him in business
til filleted with failure
cash in surety
Alan
stake him in business
til filleted with failure
cash in surety
Alan
cash in your purse...
to purchase a wallet;
a bit more manly
a bit more manly
which dangles true temptation
not easy to find
Alan
knot's easy to find
unless you have been knocked out
then you wooden know
when you 'wooden' know
then you must be 6 ft deep
pining for release
Alan
pines you have to lease
will simply never be yew;
try to hedge your bets
Once again Daniel, GENIUS !
to bet your hedges
plant lots of prickly briar
patch with wild roses
Alan
wild Rosie has packed
her stabs at fun were always
a thorn in my side
a throne on its side
could be unsettling...
who has the reigns?
hoo-hahs in the rain
dampen the controversy
what 'er you to-do
what hair, what hair-do
fashion, fusion, or fake it
so chopitallov
Alan
sew chopped-up cloth
to create a patch-work quilt --
winter warm-up
a winter stitch-up
balloon coat to keep you warm
hope it don't blow off
Alan
don't blow me off
said the chip on his shoulder;
I'm from the old block
I foam the cold bock
two heads are better than one
thoughts leave when near beer
thoughtless love from beer
consumed among strangers;
it gets still stranger
It gets still stranger
at Adams Family bash
Morticia may lurch
when mortician lurched
his ire began to fester;
addams' apple froze
Adam's apple thoes
come from a rib extraction
while sleeping one eve
while sleeping one eye
remains alert to the world
but mind remains closed
Alan
mine's remains
closed to further digs;
ore no more
aura is no more
than the truie being itself
longing for the dawn ...
Alan
along for the dawn
water precipitates;
a morn of greening
I mourn of greeting
empty places in my mind
filled with now dead friends
field of dead men
weeps for spent life;
the stones cry out
theist ones cry out
there is a higher power
and it is not I
a snotty eye --
sure sign of infection:
white corps puss-ills
White corpuscles fill
the leukemia patient
cellular mis-apps
cell phone miss saps
the whole clan's energy;
utility bills
futility builds
poisons fill the city's streets
flowers bloom despite
flower-bloom despot
corners the sorghum market...
soaks in the profits
spas profit in soaks
relaxing and cleaning all
muscles and wallets
http://www.hueyskitchen.com.au/recipes/35/whiting-with-green-beans-mussels--heirloom-tomatoes
with green beans and tomatoes;
heirloom recipe
receding hair looms
over the ears like a wave
with no permanent
with no spearmint
the twins eschewed a contract;
no Wrigley's for them
no wriggles for them
birds descend on fresh plowed fields
they were not early
he is not surly;
the man is but a simple
irascible grouch
a race able couch
leaves tracks in the living room
when retired with gas
retiring with gas
he rose at midnight...
looked like a blimp
able imp looked like
he might be up to something
but wasn't that tall
a wasp isn't tall
but the victims tell tales...
its tail is telltale
to tell tall tail tales
one mentions giraffes first then
Amazon women
Amazon women
will keep you on line;
it's one for the books
one forth of its books
should have never been in print
or cursive either
his cursive fever
gives his speech a rough bent;
I swear he leans right
I swear Helen's right
Paris did not abduct her
she eloped and left
the cantaloupe left,
the watermelon right...
I'm in the middle
the muddle I'm in
is receding with each bite
melancholia
a melon http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collie
watches over the crop...
listens to long-hair
hair longs to listen
but moves when it gets eerie
missing the good parts
missus gets good parts
of all the table scraps...
who gets the rest?
Who-Who gets the rest
as sunlight decomposes
then flies in the night
the flies on the knight
extinguished by his squire;
a count is squared
a squire is content
if he keeps his Magis straight
through a starry night
starry, starry night
in many of his paintings;
where'd his van go?
whorling, his vine grows
around the dying oak tree
new life hurries death
new light harries death;
the fresh breath of morning
fills his hungry lungs
his hungry lunge fills
the gaunt space of starvation
a feast for today
a fist for today,
a finger for tomorrow...
hands raised in protest
pros test hand raising
trying to find an answer
what was the question
Watt had a question:
Can I compute conversion
rates of energy?
energy of frights
equals the terrified mass
times the speed of flight
speed of flight at times
is slower traveling west --
head winds... clock bacwards
backwoods clock wounds heads
when the gnomon is a cane
some lessons take time
Gnomon: Upright part of a Sundial
gnome lessons take time
into a new dimension...
an ancient garden
ancient guardian
protects valuable knowledge
and the small minded
small mind did
what most small minds do:
follow the crowd
a fellow de-crowed
his cornfield with a falcon
now he’s a ravin’
northeast http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/common_raven/lifehistory
soon to be more common;
smart to move back
it's smart to move back
children with college degrees
need education
knead education
into the family dough;
bake well in life's fire
baked well in wife’s ire
his heated dispute cooled in
the dog house out back
dog hosed his back;
offended garden gnome
burned down his house
burning down his house
the ashes fell like feathers
and his goose was cooked
gnome's goose was cooked
when they found him with the torch;
his anger oozed
the gnome's angry ruse
was dwarfed only by revenge
for homes goblin' trees
trees goblin' homes
in the great forest fire;
can't tell which is witch
tell witches to switch
from brooms to vacuum cleaners
for more poise in flights
when porpoises fly
the seagulls are nonplussed;
they'll see but a splash
they'll see a butt splash
cannonballs in empty pools
affect a stern umm
he cracked his sternum
while tackling their halfback...
back to the bench
with back to the beach
a surfer paddled through waves
to ride sunset's tide
son sets ride afire
at the ocean pier fun park...
dad surfs for lawyer
dad serves four layer
cake every day of the week
with hot fudge Sundays
with thought for Sunday
he charged into the weekend;
he gives cash at church
hedgers clash at church
evading the obvious
pews are filled with buts
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