Mystique of the Mojave

A white wash of striated clouds
stretch expansively 
across the arid desert sky
where Joshua trees commune
lifting up crooked cactus-like arms
towards the searing sun. 

Massive layers of brown boulders 
jut, forming endless sculptures 
hidden places where the ancients 
made their penitence with words
swept away by unforgiving winds. 

Shadows shift under the arc of the sun
where nervous roadrunners dart
startled lizards seek shade
great hawks circle with outstretched wings 
and tortoises amble as the hours crawl by. 

Two lane highways trail into the horizon 
toward snow capped mountain peaks 
lined by nameless telephone poles 
and tumbleweeds that roll aimlessly 
across storefronts and sleepy 
rundown towns in disrepair. 

Yet the mystique of the Mojave plains
still remains an inviting oasis 
of refreshment and contemplation 
where time stands still
beneath the stillness
of the midnight stars. 









12/5/2022
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

Poem

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Summers Avatar
July 16, 2024 at 8:44 PM
Really like the poem. I’ve enjoyed camping in the Mojave and your poem describes it nicely. “Refreshment and contemplation,” so very true. If you get time I have a Mojave poem as well, The Desert. John
Leiser Avatar
July 16, 2024 at 8:52 PM
Thank you, John, for stopping by! Yes, I’ll check out your poem, as well. :)
Rodrigues Avatar
March 19, 2023 at 5:53 AM
Where a poet lays her head to see all the sights and mystique of the Mojave! Nice one, Laura!
Leiser Avatar
March 20, 2023 at 2:03 PM
Thanks so much, Kim! Glad you enjoyed this one! :)
One Avatar
December 27, 2022 at 12:45 PM
wow.. ive missed your poetry and how smooth you are with your words... where do i start to praise this one with each stanza full of poetic excellence.. The desert can be a mysterious place, ive been to a desert sunset in Dubai and it was quite spectacular.. the last stanza to your poem is my favourite..
Leiser Avatar
December 30, 2022 at 9:21 PM
It’s so good to hear from you again, Silent! I’m so glad you enjoyed my little poem, as well! I haven’t been too active on PS lately, but your comments made my day! Hugs! :)
Agustin Avatar
December 27, 2022 at 6:20 AM
Thanks for sharing this. By God's grace, I greet you with the peace and joy of Christmas and prosperous New Year along this present: "the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23 of the King James Bible). God bless you.
Leiser Avatar
December 30, 2022 at 9:27 PM
Thank you, Beata! God bless you and yours this Christmas season! :)
Kendrick Avatar
December 16, 2022 at 2:04 PM
I like this descriptive and creative work you have penned. Thanks for sharing. Sara
Leiser Avatar
December 17, 2022 at 8:25 PM
Thank youC Sara! I’m happy you liked this! :)
Lawrence Avatar
December 13, 2022 at 4:42 PM
I love this Laura ! I have spent many hours, days and years driving up those roads and gazing out at the unveiling landscape you so beautifully described ! I love revisiting it through your poem. Susan :)
Leiser Avatar
December 15, 2022 at 7:18 PM
Thank you so much for your kind comments, Susan! My recent trip to Joshua Tree really inspired me to write, as my poems have been few and far between as of late.
Hankins Avatar
December 5, 2022 at 8:01 AM
Simply beautiful images, Laura, of a special place on earth. I enjoyed your poem immensely.
Leiser Avatar
December 5, 2022 at 8:17 AM
Thank you, Milt! So happy you enjoyed this one! :)
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