Islands In the Stream

Islands in the Stream

Islands linked together like forged argent charms, 
In straights of silent, surging currents,
Where Watchtowers of Fresnel lens sound fog sirens
Where sacred shoals harbor shame forgiven;
Lightships built high on cribs and Keys of truth finally seen 
As bright argand lamps on chariot wheels send out beacons,
To signal sightless ships with broken masts and rudders
Through whirlpools of turbulent canals and gushing straights,
To find serene deep-water ports in chains of channeled islands.  

Yet, these no islands only mountaintops of maturity climbed
From submerged land coupled at a thousand leagues
Beneath the tidal moon enchantment;
Restoring milestone harbors of illumination
Words lit by isophase candle lamps inside carved prisms 
Expanding light waves of thought - recognitions of new plateaus
Topping astragals of aerobeacons with untasted adventures
Into enlightenments leaving behind each newly explored isle -
New christened tall ships navigate siren’s lure in uncharted streams.

9-20-21
Contest: Islands in the Stream
Sponsor: Craig Cornish
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

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

Goldsmith Avatar
October 15, 2021 at 8:55 AM
Congratulations on your win. A creative "Islands in the Stream" story/write. Have a blessed autumn day............
Kauffman Avatar
October 15, 2021 at 9:37 AM
Hi Paula! Thank you. Had a hard time getting my head around the contest theme. But, I was very pleased with the result and with the placement. There were so many wonderful entries! Sending you all the blessings of the season.
Alex Avatar
October 14, 2021 at 8:43 PM
"Words lit by isophase candle lamps inside carved prisms" - A beautiful poem. Congratulations!
Kauffman Avatar
October 15, 2021 at 9:33 AM
Thank you so much Chris. It took awhile to bring all of the "islands" into focus. I am so grateful for the placement among many wonderful entries! Blessings to you!
Mcintosh Avatar
September 30, 2021 at 3:24 PM
Beautifully done. I enjoyed your poem. God bless you always, Love, Gina
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 10:20 AM
I am so happy you enjoyed this journey through the islands in our stream Gina! What a gift! Have been reading some of the other entries. They are amazing indeed. Many, many thanks for your visit and your delightfully encouraging message. Sending you blessings and a hug!
Dutta Avatar
September 29, 2021 at 10:41 PM
Simply EXCELLENT. I am charmed. Most alluring choice of words. The poem is sure to win TOP.
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 10:14 AM
Anisha, thank you. I really struggled with the interpretation of this theme. Your message was such a wonderful lift. Many thanks and much gratitude! Blessings to you my friend!
Poet Avatar
September 29, 2021 at 5:14 AM
Great write, Sam, the view here gives me a completely different perspective on the Giant Stepping Stone, which I've seen along many beaches. This is truly magical, Sam. One of the most appealing aspects of this poem is its delicate alliteration.
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 10:11 AM
Lasaad, thank you so very much for your wonderful message. This is what all of us as poets hope for - to provide a different view and viewpoint. Thank you for giving me that feeling of accomplishing a goal. I guess that's what islands in the stream is really all about after all. Take care my friend! Sending you all the blessings of the season!
Horsman Avatar
September 28, 2021 at 9:11 PM
Wow, This is magic Sam, a whole new way of perceiving the Giant stepping stone off many shores i have witness. The judge is a hard man to please, but somehow i think there will be a place for this gem.
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 10:04 AM
I am truly humbled by your amazing words of compliment Harry! Thank you so much for lifting up my heart and giving my spirits a boost! Many, many thanks coming your way! I am indeed encouraged! Hope you are well. Take care my friend. Sending you all of the blessings of the season!
Dietrich Avatar
September 28, 2021 at 6:05 PM
well I see someone for sure that will be on that winners' list. Gosh, I could not write this way if I wanted to. I don't even know enough about islands and all the things you used for your symbols . Stellar, Sam.
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 10:00 AM
Hi Andrea! Many, many thanks for your lovely compliments and encouraging feedback. You have been such a source of encouragement and inspiration for me. Your writing is so diverse in style with your unique creativity. I have learned much from you. Would love to see what you would do with this theme. Sending you blessings dear friend and a hug.
Brul Avatar
September 28, 2021 at 3:44 PM
Lovely poem with superb and rich imagery. I love the light alliteration that makes this poem enchanting. Best wishes.
Kauffman Avatar
October 1, 2021 at 9:53 AM
Hi Unica! Thank you so much! I had this mental image of each island in the stream attracting us with a lighthouse guide knowing we are attracted to the light and not to the darkness! I am so grateful for your lovely feedback letting me know that, in a way, I achieved my goal. Sending you a symphony of blessings in light!
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