Edwin Baldwin Poet Sonnet

Nikan

Inspired by;  Constance La France’s Native American Portrait 


Nikan is a man who once stood proud and true all across this land
in symbiotic relation with nature endowed by the great creators hand
passed onto him by his ancestors to never take more than his fair share
and always be kind to this land for it’s the Mother to all whom she shall bare

When times are lean we all will grow thin together for together we are one
with one voice to sing in harmony for bountiful harvest to our Father the Sun
and give him thanks and praise for warming and making fertile our Mother
who blessed new life into the birthing seasons for every Sister and Brother

Great spirit hear my song of hope that I sing for my people who will cry
we are mighty on the earth give us protection or your children they will die
and our people’s blood will flow upon our Mother like deep rivers of raging red
O’ Father I can see no solution will you spare us from the white mans dread 


I could never make claim to imagine this great man’s woeful sorry or despair
Nikan's song is a lonely tune played for the spirit of his people upon the air.


Nikan traslation from the Potawatomi "MY Friend"

Baamaapii Nikan.......until we meet again my friend

♡Like0

Share 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

Carol Fillmore March 22, 2011 at 12:47 PM this is an impressive piece Edwin, great write and I enjoyed this read:) Thanks for your congratulations for my win, appreciated:) Carol

Carolyn Devonshire March 22, 2011 at 12:40 PM Glad you caught that "fallen tree." It was intentionally described that way to illustrate the Native Americans' love for nature. I don't think anyone else caught it. Thank you! Love, Carolyn

Carolyn Devonshire March 22, 2011 at 11:33 AM Somehow that picture made me feel that he was regretting how the Europeans had invaded his land, Edwin. This is very well written and moving. I'm sure the only reason it didn't place is because you didn't put your name on the poem as stated in the contest rules. Some sponsors are adament that their rules be followed. Actually, your interpretation of the picture is very much like my own and it's going to my favorites. Love, Carolyn