13th November

A dandelion seed ball -
how fragile it is floating 
the still air. I reach out
but it somersaults 
in the disturbance 
of my moving hand. 
I want to hold it 
but it keeps floating away. 

It moves on the slightest
puff of my breath. 
I've caught it !
cupped in my closed hands -
but it's no longer whole
only a collection
of parts, fragments 
of what was, 
a memory now.

Hell…it's the 13th today !.
My fathers birthday.
He's been dead 
twenty seven years.
I should have told him
that I loved him  
far more than I did.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

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Kauffman Avatar
November 14, 2024 at 12:17 PM
Paul, truly what is just beyond our reach can be fleeting and so fragile. Wonderful metaphor for what gets away from us, never to be re-captured! I enjoyed this thoughtful, introspective poem. Blessings to you.
Willason Avatar
November 14, 2024 at 6:15 PM
So pleased to receive your thoughtful and kind comments Sam. Thankyou for taking the time to read and to let the poem speak. Very grateful. Regards, Paul
Wolf Avatar
November 12, 2024 at 9:25 PM
Intriguing comparison, Paul. Too often we are left 'clutching at the air' or 'holding the (empty) bag.' Resonates deeply with me in my relationship with my father. Thank you, Gershon
Willason Avatar
November 14, 2024 at 6:10 PM
There are moments that suddenly cause an instant connection to a memory. I am reminded of that classic example of Proust when he recalls his mothers madeleine cakes. In this case it is the collision between the image of change and fragmentation and the memory of a loved one, now recalled in the blown seeds of memory. Value your comments dear Gershon.
M  Avatar
November 12, 2024 at 3:57 PM
Paul…..l related and was reminded of the dandelion catching l did and loved as a girl….it took me back and gave me a warm feeling with a tinge of sadness of yesteryear….oh to be that young and playful again! I hope you dads birthday isn't to sad a day….If you had a good relationship l am sure he knew how much you loved him! Debx Soupmail!!
Willason Avatar
November 14, 2024 at 6:00 PM
Ah memories....it is a good feeling for me to learn that the poem gave rise to some pleasant memories. To cause such a response in the reader is music to any poet...so kind my dear Deb.
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