Another World

Deep in the forest was an inaccessible cliff
that soared high above the tall tree canopy.
People had wondered for years what lay beyond
yet the landscape was so inhospitable none dared
to try to reach the impassable cliff and scale it.

A hunting party got led astray as they tracked
after a herd of mountain bearded goats.
The chase had been long and very hard
as their elusive prey kept far ahead, tempting
them ever onwards. Now with night approaching
they were caught far from home with no shelter.

They searched along the cliff base for a cave
finally one spotted a narrow track.
With trepidation they followed it into the cliff
it twisted and turned getting narrower,
darkness coated them almost smothering them.

With brush torches they plunged ever deeper
into its midst, the rocks covered in green slime.
Which gave off an odd luminous light that
distorted everything in the strangest way.
Giving rise to images of long lost creatures
that flicked and danced in the eerie light.

Along way ahead they could see sky
and odd trees on the distant horizon.
Finally reaching the end they looked
out on to a very different world.
Everywhere they looked were new plants.

Wondrous plants with enormous fruits
and strange multi coloured birds
that flocked to them without any fear,
settling on shoulders chattering away.
Deer came up and nudged them gently
seeking their pockets with wet tongues.

Flowers spanning six to nine feet
made for the perfect resting places.
Cosy and bouncy the weary hunters
were soon fast asleep and woke invigorated.
The stream bubbled by contentedly.

Its waters were crystal clear and sweet
and enormous fish lazily swam by.
They spent a few days there exploring
all the treasures that nature offered.
Reluctantly they made their way back
and excitedly told friends and family.

They scoffed at their tales with disbelief
until in frustration they led them back to the cliff.
For hours they searched in vain for the trail,
They looked at each other incredulously
Had they just dreamt it? We will never know!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Wolf Avatar
October 19, 2016 at 6:45 AM
Awesome! You sure know how to tell a good story Shadow, thoroughly enjoyed it /|\
Fleming Avatar
May 14, 2016 at 1:39 PM
I really do enjoy reading these "Epics"...And this one is no exception - Excellent! A much deserved seven. My very best regards...And warmest wishes, as always, Shadow. :) john
Dietrich Avatar
May 2, 2016 at 5:20 PM
soupmail.
Dietrich Avatar
May 2, 2016 at 4:04 PM
what a fantastical story, Shadow. Is this for that children's story contest? Or just an idea that you needed to put on paper and show us? Either way, it's a great story! It is mysterious like some movies I have seen on this type of topic. well done!! Also, thanks for your last contest and the current one you are sponsoring.
Sathasivam Avatar
May 2, 2016 at 5:38 AM
Excellent. Great imagery poem. Well done. Enjoyed reading it. Thanks for sharing it
Lamoureux Avatar
May 1, 2016 at 8:21 AM
You know how to tell a story Shadow! Well done.
Devnath  Avatar
April 29, 2016 at 11:24 AM
It's a mysterious poem beautifully expressed my lovely friend. Loved always, bl
May Avatar
April 27, 2016 at 10:34 PM
Great story Shadow...enjoyed...
Nance Avatar
April 26, 2016 at 4:43 PM
Oh great storytelling! What an adventurous and indeed epic write, a pleasure to read you :)
Allison Avatar
April 26, 2016 at 4:34 PM
wow Shadow you took me on a fabulous journey with your wonderful vivid imagery - great write:-) hugs Jan xx7
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace