Raven's Bones

Waterlilies brighten black
ripples, reeds, and rocks below.
An even flow, bane and blight
recedes to bare raven’s bones.

A grave of darkness blanches
In austere light on bloodless
banks, but blue eyes cannot flood
its once watery coffin.

Dew on the waterlilies
reflect these absurdities -
the woeful bones glistening 
alone near floral beauty.



Written 5/23/20 
N/A in
Genuine Englyns  Contest
Copyright © | Year Posted 2020

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

Mishra Avatar
July 7, 2020 at 1:45 PM
This write not only reflects the brilliance of your imagination but the sheer efforts behind your thoughts and metaphors Rhonda. Glad this one got placed. This is extraordinary poetry. Congratulations on a win :) Much love!
Hamilton Avatar
July 6, 2020 at 1:49 PM
I was pleasantly surprised this was you Rhonda, I never knew you could write of darkness as well, you are a gifted writer, congrats on placing this time!
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
July 6, 2020 at 8:39 PM
Thank you, John. This is one of my favorite poems I've written this year because it's different than what I normally write. I appreciate the placement. :) Rhonda xx
Faulkner Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 3:50 PM
This is so darkly captivating, infused with mystery - an excellent write!
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 25, 2020 at 10:00 PM
Thank you, Michelle! This poem went to a darker place than I intended
Pigeon Tart Avatar
May 24, 2020 at 11:23 AM
I love this poem. A winner for me! My best to you in the contest, xomo!
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 25, 2020 at 9:59 PM
Thank you, mo...this one went to a darker place than I intended.
Krutsinger Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 10:29 PM
I do not know which is more beautiful the poem or your watercolor; I assume they are both your works of art.
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 11:47 PM
Hi Caren, the poem is mine, but sadly, the watercolor is not. I wish I could paint like that! i should try finding the artist so I can give them the credit...thanks for the lovely visit. xx Rhonda :)
Barden Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 9:35 PM
Oh, I love the dark-tinged imagery and layered ambiguity here, and the stories that it conjures mind-ward ... there is such beauty in the darkness, and death is a part of that - the shadowed echo of life that gives it value. Wonderful write, and one of the best I've read in a while. I also adore the marvelous watercolor you've accompanied it with. This is going into my faves - I shall have to return to your page soon. Blessings! <3
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 11:41 PM
Thank you, Gregory, for taking the time to visit! I'm honored that you appreciated my poem and placed it in your faves...yes, there's beauty in the darkness and in every life even after death. xx Rhonda :)
Dietrich Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 8:29 PM
thanks for your visit. I miss seeing you here!
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 11:14 PM
I've missed being here, and I missed writing. It's too difficult for me to visit when I'm unable to write. I can't explain how happy I am to feel inspired to write again :)
Dietrich Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 8:28 PM
such a contrast you portrayed with this cool form. I have not figure it out yet, what the englyn is!! I need to find out!
Johnson-Saunders Avatar
May 23, 2020 at 11:08 PM
I'm not sure about the form myself! I was just trying to follow the contest rules., but I'm not sure it's what the sponsor is looking for. I do know it's not the same as Soup's description of an englyn.
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