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The Elder

In the shadow of this tree, Judas mapped his misery, But saw no finger-post, save one: A beckoning oblivion. So up he climbed, with labored breath, To where he could devise his death. The twisted tree, by time distressed, Would ratify his wretchedness, And let him fall — his loss complete, The seamless sky his winding sheet.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2017




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Date: 4/14/2025 8:44:00 AM
Profound! So much awareness messaging is canvased by God's sage trees throughout the seasons. Love the depth conveyed in this masterful poetic style. Thanks for the share, Alan. One. Peace and love.
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Date: 3/19/2025 4:07:00 PM
This set of couplets and your extraordinary gift of rhyme really stands out as something special here in Poetry Soup. Glad I discovered your work today!
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Ireland Avatar
Alan Ireland
Date: 3/20/2025 2:50:00 PM
Thank you. It's a versification of an ancient belief that Judas hanged himself on an elder tree - rather unlikely in my opinion, as such trees don't (as far as I know) grow to any great size. Incidentally, two mouthfuls of elderberry syrup were all I needed to cure my "Covid cough"!
Date: 8/7/2017 10:06:00 PM
Judas has always been a problem for me in that I think he might have been a scape goat. Your poem has opened up my mind and shook out that conundrum.
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Date: 6/13/2017 5:49:00 PM
Another jewel! You are very talented!
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