In his 1954 poem, '13 ways of Looking at a Blackbird,' Wallace Stevens wrote thirteen short verses providing different images of blackbirds.
Michelle McGrane adopted a similar stance in writing her poem 'Thirteen Ways With Figs' where she wrote 13 slightly longer stanzas.
Looking at a particular object from different perspectives we learn to trust the images that offer themselves up.
I decided to imitate the style of these earlier poets to inform my own poetry writing. I chose as my subject the enduring image of a large oak tree that stood in the yard of our family home, when I was growing up.
I have modified the format of the earlier poems slightly, choosing to use seven, three line stanzas. The lines possess a consistent brevity.
Oak Tree Perspectives
Shade giver,
Backrest
For a young reader
Autumn giveaways
Golden vestments
Shed
Time resistor
Gnarled weathered skin
Mossy trunk
Climbing frame
Lookout spot
For spying eyes
An acorn carpet
Bordering your base
Offspring
Strong, enduring
Force of nature
Mighty oak.
©Alan j Wright
Alan, this is beautiful! I love being in conversation with other poets as you are here. You take the discussion a bit further. That autumn giveaway is wonderful! My daughter and I have been watching the show, 'Repair Shop' on Netflix. She's 20 and watches it for the interesting craft...I marvel at the strong connection people have to objects from childhood. I love that this tree is still yours.
ReplyDeleteThe influence of other poets is something we must readily acknowledge, particularly around style and form., so your point is well made Linda. Coupled with that is the influence of childhood object and connections. You have reminded me of the connection that has taken place here. I like your last sentence.
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your poem, and the background of perspective!
ReplyDeleteThank you Jean. Your response pleases me.
DeleteI have a photo like this. I like looking up from the base of a tree. So much to this tree, its age, its acorns, its usefulness and beauty that you captured in your verse. Thank you, Alan, for sharing your poem.
ReplyDeleteTaking time to gaze up at majestic trees is a past time we share Janice. So glad you took these perspectives from the poem.
DeleteI love this! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThat makes my heart sing Ruth.
DeleteI love your whole post Alan– it's strong and sturdy like the oak tree and reaches out in all directions like it's wonderful branches in your image. What a grand idea, grand tree to grow up with, and lovely rhythm in your poem, thanks!
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the enthusiastic response to my post Michelle. My old oak tree stands tall once more. Thank you for your kind remarks.
DeleteOh, this tree! and Oh this post! I appreciate the link to past poets and how you've taken the inspiration and adapted it. What a glorious tree and what a beautiful tribute to it you've created in each stanza. Love the photo, too!
ReplyDeleteThank you Molly for your enthusiastic response to my oak tree recollections and the influences surrounding it.
DeleteWonderful post, Alan, and such a good reminder to look deeply, to pause, to dwell in the various perspectives we can gain to lingering. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMary, I find myself in fierce agreement with you regarding the need to pause, dwell and linger in order to obtain the necessary perspectives we writers need.
DeleteI had too many favorite lines to pick just one! Very nice, Alan.
ReplyDeleteGlad the overall response was a favourable one Tabatha.
DeleteAlan, the poem is full of descriptive features of the mighty oak tree. I especially like Stannza 2: Autumn giveaways/Golden vestments/Shed. I thought those lines would be a fitting closing statement for the last edition of Abundant Autumn Gallery. Would you consider offering that with a photo of a bare tree? I probably would place that stanza in next week's PF.
ReplyDeleteThank you Carol. Will endeavour to follow up your request.
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