In the Empire of the Ice

(These are 2 etheree I put together to form a double etheree.
They were inspired by the marvelous
documentary movie "March of the Penguins.")

In the Empire of the Ice:
“The Plunge” & “When Childhood Ends”

They poke small heads out from underbellies;
feeling chill, retreat; and shivering,
remain a while longer where it’s
safe.  Nourished by both parents,
the chicks adapt.  One day
they’re left alone, but
Sea soon beckons 
them, and . . .  they
take the
plunge.
Five 
years they
play, chase warm
waters’ flow and grow
with stomachs always full
before black heads emerge from
sea. . . Swollen bellies slide on ice.
Upright, they resolutely waddle
miles home. . . fierce winter storms not prevailing.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011

Poem

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Watt Avatar
November 24, 2020 at 10:46 PM
Delightful etheree pair of a species that we can learn a lot from.
Yvonne Avatar
November 24, 2014 at 8:13 PM
Really,really good! Great Movie, great poem!
Babcock Avatar
March 21, 2011 at 7:34 AM
I loved the movie and they are masters of survival these little birds. A wonderful poem Andrea. love phyl
Poet Avatar
January 27, 2011 at 5:16 PM
Another beauty from you,Andrea!I will try this shape----kashinath
Knop Avatar
January 23, 2011 at 8:09 AM
Penguins are so lovely creatures! We here have a small zoo with some penguins and...they survived the floods in August when about 50 animals had died there. Enjoyed your poem and thank you for your always kind comments on my work!...Gert :)
George   Avatar
January 22, 2011 at 12:17 PM
March of the Penguins - One of the most powerful films I have ever seen. Incredible etherees, Andrea. Your talent has no boudries. Lainie
Wilson Avatar
January 22, 2011 at 7:52 AM
awww this is sweet and describes my favorite animal so very well! love,Deb
Goff Avatar
January 22, 2011 at 6:57 AM
wonderful story! Andrea! beautiful form! jimbo
Sweetheart Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 12:18 PM
Now I am anxiously awaiting to read your entry for the Valentine's Day contest after reading your funny comment Andrea... hope it's not too long a wait luv..haha..
Maverick Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 11:36 AM
enjoyed this piece Andrea, those penguins really do underwater flight, and certainly are a hardy speices.
Austin Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 8:16 AM
What got into him was the man from Raleigh's nose. I too love the Etheree. Saw the picture - amazing! Good write y'all. Love, Dave
Heckman Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 8:14 AM
From Julie Heckman on "Fall"...I received your comment...to bad you don't understand what a "phase" is
Sweetheart Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 7:46 AM
A precious poem about the penguins Andrea.. and their plight for survival.. so aptly written and presented to make us feel their lifestyle luv.. enjoyed and good luck if for any contest..luv. happy weekend..
Bagnall Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 5:20 AM
Nicely written, enjoyed the subject, and learnt something ! Thanks for sharing.
Neels Avatar
January 21, 2011 at 12:14 AM
Andrea, I absolutely love penguins and you made me smile right through this beautiful write of yours.. :) lovely double etheree, love Wilma
Mannan Avatar
January 20, 2011 at 9:37 PM
You have beautifully portrayed the penguins and their enviornment. Amazing poetry Andrea.
Pettit Avatar
January 20, 2011 at 7:13 PM
Penguins are fascinating birds. We had birds similar to these in the Northern Hemisphere known as "Great Auks". Unfortunately, these birds were hunted to extinction almost 200 years ago. You have described everything here quite well.
Sweetheart Avatar
January 20, 2011 at 4:55 PM
Terrific form and content Andrea my friend.. an awesome poetic piece ... thankxx for your sweet comments on my latest contest entry luv..
Devonshire Avatar
January 20, 2011 at 4:26 PM
Nicely done, Andrea. I had a smile on my face thinking of the penguins sliding on the ice with their swollen bellies. Interesting use of the form as well. Love, Carolyn
Mehta Avatar
January 20, 2011 at 3:57 PM
The second story of my poem I helped needy is somewhat true and the help in cash exxagerated, Andrea. I still see the lady whenever I make a stop in London.
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