Notes About The Poem

Edward Ibeh's Pick-A-Title Contest, Vol 49        2/25/25

 

Transylvanian Gothic

In the shadowed mountains of Romania, horse-drawn carts travel down dirt roads. On foot, some walk through rolling hills blanketed by fog in a world that's become known for myths and legends. Darkness is associated with the folklore of this mysterious, medieval land. People, some call them cult worshippers, are drawn to wander the hills and valleys nestled in the ancient Carpathian Mountains. Drawn there to envision themselves in the midst of what Bram Stoker's novels describe in great detail. Such is the reputation of this land that's been labeled, Transylvanian Gothic.

in deep dark forests
vampires search for nightly prey
Dracula still lives

 Beware if a chill is felt, for wanderers may be dealt a blow, or a bite on the neck. Wildling wolves howl at the blood red moon, a foreshadowing of the dirge, the terror that is said to scourge the land. In the background chords of organ music is heard coming from within moss draped trees and, in the distance is an eerie castle. Its gates should bear a sign reading, "Forbidden! Entering after dark would be a foolish lark for in an ancient vault lies one who feeds in the night on blood."

bats fly from turrets
Transylvanian Gothic
gruesome place at night

gothic villages
undeserved reputation
of vampire legends
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Ibeh Avatar
March 2, 2025 at 11:21 AM
Such a great double haibun, Lin. A Dracula story well-told with captivating imagery and amazing detail. Loved that double senryus at the end.
Lane Avatar
March 2, 2025 at 11:28 AM
Thank you for liking my entry, Edward. I wasn't sure which way to go with this theme but chose it because not many others did. I appreciate your contests.
Jones Avatar
March 2, 2025 at 7:47 AM
Congratulations on your top win!
Lane Avatar
March 2, 2025 at 11:26 AM
Thank you so very much, kind Karen. ;-)
Rodrigues Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 5:22 AM
Enjoyed very much!
Lane Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 5:28 AM
Thanks a bunch, Kim.
Cunningham Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 9:24 PM
It's got quite a reputation lin, it's not on my bucket list anytime soon, not sharing my blood with anyone lol. You described it well. Tom
Lane Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 5:27 AM
Haha ok, Tom. It’s not on mine either. Thanks.
Allison Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 6:17 PM
Such vivid description, would be suitable for a halloween read round the fire side - beautiful by day but you wouldnt catch me going out at dusk . excellent ink Lin! hugs jan x
Lane Avatar
February 26, 2025 at 5:26 AM
As long as you have garlic around your neck you should be ok. Lol thanks, Jan.
Beaufort Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 11:13 AM
Lin, I like your poem three-line summaries at the end. I guess the truth lies in the eyes of the beholder. I imagine the sci-fi aspects of all of this come from personification of cruelty that has been part of civilization for some time. It's a shame that we've been unable to live in peace. Smiles. BTW, you've written a lot. That's amazing really. You can put yourself in a lot of different situations and make some neat places. Take care!!
Lane Avatar
February 25, 2025 at 11:35 AM
Thank you very much for your many kind comments, Duke. I've found myself having quite a lot of free time lately, so I've been using it to write and even dabble a bit in watercolors. Meh, so far, but I'm learning. I showed 2 photos of the area. One portrays the rep it has for vampires, and the other to illustrate the beauty of the area. I'd love to visit, but not at night. lol just kidding.
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