Poetry Friday

Part I. This is especially for the teachers. Poetic Reactions to Historic Events, a blog post by former Library of Congress Teacher in Residence, Rebecca Newland came into my inbox this week. It's a gem. There's so much for poetry lovers and learners at LOC.

Part II. some poetry! December turns my thoughts toward holidays and snow. Be sure to stop over at talented Bridget Magee's Wee Words for Wee Ones for Poetry Friday Fun. She's graciously hosting today. And, that is a gift I am grateful for.

Thoughts of Frost’s Little Horse                               

Despite his writing through the night,
the poet aimed to write words right.
When sun broke o’er hill and forest
Lines of verse flowed strong and bright.

Just perfect, thought our Mr. Frost
Without a word or iamb lost
to abstract notions or vain art
a magic poem, enchanted dross.

However,    

    

He left out thoughts of another                                          
who also had wonder to discover
at the same halt and same woods edge
where snowflakes fell on both together.

Dear reader, allow a small repair
a gaff in poetry so fair
with bell-thoughts by “the little horse”
Her brief pause and winter’s prayer.

These winter woods he thinks he knows
are not so owned by him below
the deer and owl watch us stop
to watch our woods fill up with snow.

My diver man must think it queer
that I don’t mind us stopping here
to break and pray in nature’s church
and ease our hearts this time of year.

I give my harness bells a shake
to let him know there’s no mistake.
The quiet sweep of snow is safe
for us a slumber while awake.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
covered in drifts white and sweet,
that gentle our miles before we sleep,
that gentle our miles before we sleep.

(c) Linda Mitchell