Potter's Wheel

Thousands of gentle caresses, soft touch, 
From the potter’s hands to properly guide
Tenuously stretching sides he might crush, 
If too much pressure his fingers provide.  

Young heart made of clay, forming on the wheel.  
To guide your unfolding, our sacred charge.
Push we must, yet your own shape you reveal.
A careful balance, an impact so large.

Kiln’s searing flame awaits, the piece’s trial.
But before, time drying, forming in place.
Away from well meaning hands and anxious smiles.
Then ceremonial paint brushed on face.

Tempered by scorching waves of heat, the bowl
Gleams triumphant, a grail to hold the soul.

3/5/16
Copyright © | Year Posted 2016

Poem

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De Beaulieu Avatar
August 30, 2017 at 6:09 PM
Hello Tom, when I went to camp in my teenage years,I worked with clay. I made soap dishes, plaques,and vases. Those items are gone now. But remember.ed. I never got to use the potter's wheel. have a nice day my friend.
Hamilton Avatar
July 19, 2016 at 2:11 PM
Great write Tom, reminds me of my potter and the clay poem, but I like yours better! Great message, I agree with Walter "grail to hold the soul" just golden words. A7
Quigley Avatar
July 19, 2016 at 5:10 PM
Thank you, John!
Ashe Avatar
March 9, 2016 at 2:03 PM
"a grail to hold the soul".....diamond words Tom...diamonds!!! :-)
Quigley Avatar
March 9, 2016 at 3:24 PM
Thanks, Walter!
Lindley Avatar
March 7, 2016 at 9:19 PM
Your words mold a fine image and well crafted new pt of gold my friend. An exceptional sonnet for sure. A7 I WISH THAT I HAD WRITTEN IT! Adding to my fav list and thanks.
Quigley Avatar
March 9, 2016 at 3:24 PM
Thanks, Robert!
Turner Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 5:37 PM
Another well written sonnet, Tom. I have a poem entitled "Perseverance" about molding clay. Really enjoyed the read. Peace my friend:)
Quigley Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 5:33 AM
Thanks, Daniel!
Maverick Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 3:38 PM
You have done well in the object and allegory here Tom, so pleased to hear from you..'
Quigley Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 5:33 AM
Thank you, Joe!
Showalter Swift Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 3:05 PM
LOve it! Great write!
Quigley Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 5:34 AM
Thanks, Ingrid!
Bbb Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 2:49 PM
Beautifully described! Gives true feeling of whole process
Quigley Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 5:34 AM
Thank you!
Heemstra Avatar
March 5, 2016 at 2:18 PM
A perfect sonnet to tribute a craft!
Quigley Avatar
March 6, 2016 at 5:34 AM
Thanks!
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