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The Jam Jar

A small shadow has settled upon the glass jam jar on the desk, amongst a frozen swirl of pencils that are waiting patiently for inspiration to seize a hand and be picked up.

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Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 12/10/2023 6:38:00 PM

I have a similar jar with pencils...this poem was simple and stated the obvious...sometimes creativity is right in front of us. enjoy your evening, Sara

Paul Willason
Date: 12/18/2023 3:11:00 AM

A jar is an indispensable item for the poet...holds pens and pencils and acts a bit like a crystal ball sometimes. Thanks for yr commenrs Sara...

Daniel Turner

Date: 12/10/2023 8:04:00 AM

It's rather ironic when we are seeking inspiration and we don't recognize it when it's there all along:) I like this simple poem, Paul.

Paul Willason
Date: 12/18/2023 3:08:00 AM

Thanks Daniel....true comment. A good example is when William Carlos Williams made a red wheelbarrow famous.

Di11y Da11y

Date: 12/10/2023 4:26:00 AM

I love the way you can capture these things, everything and nothing is right in front of us all the time. Inspiration isn't some huge event or lightning bolt - it can be how the light hits a item you've looked at for years but just suddenly see in a moment. A rusty nail, a jam jar, a groove in a well worn surface - all the spaces capture and hold something to the eye of a poet. Beautiful. This one speaks to me of the potential of sitting with your thoughts and something beautiful appearing x

Paul Willason
Date: 12/18/2023 3:05:00 AM

I guess that is what poetry is about DD...trying to make the ordinary come alive, to show it under a different light. It's good when it works in a poem...indeed appreciate your comments once again.

Lin Lane

Date: 12/10/2023 3:38:00 AM

I’m glad the hand that picked up a pencil Was yours, Paul. You turn mundane things into a work of art. Your imagery in this one is something I’d like to paint.

John Lawless

Date: 12/10/2023 2:43:00 AM

...what lurks within that shadow.....

Paul Willason
Date: 12/18/2023 3:00:00 AM

There always has to be a shadow...required kit for any poet. Thanks for giving it your time John, valued.

Paul Bell

Date: 12/10/2023 2:26:00 AM

Strange thing, inspiration. I sometimes think you have to go out and hope a meteor falls on your head.

Paul Willason
Date: 12/18/2023 2:54:00 AM

Always illusive, pity there is no ritual for taming it. Thanks for commenting Paul.