the avenue

the avenue poem
A pavement under trees,
…Approaching like the rest
In the same dapple of the summer caught

I foot the avenue like a summer bride
a cathedralesque affair with far off altar rail
one mile or so the aisle – quite long enough
to play adagio some processional wedding motif
pews each side veiled, brim-filled and wide
dark as emeralds in deep stone shade
with brilliant coloured stains of small glass panes
where breezes part the leaves, a glint of sun

in the end there is no altar
but only a heartfelt prayer

[*I did not know of Frances Cornford‘s poem before I wrote these lines but I always research titles before posting and found her gem fits rather well here]

Some 10 line micro poetry with Toads theme: Dark as emeralds and a small offering for today’s poetry pantry

26 Comments on “the avenue

  1. So much accomplished in so few lines to find a space for something sacred to occur! I loved the procession — long enough to feel like a stage of life — with the chapel at its end, the dark panes of colored glass turning the interior to a deep emerald gleam. And the gift is not in the consummation but simply the ardor of the making–that “heartfelt prayer.” Wonderful response to the challenge.


  2. This gave me goose flesh all over. What a stunning view of nature as cathedral.


  3. Ah, after reading Kerry’s comment, I think I understand more….. we definitely don’t need a cathedral to experience that worshipful feeling.


  4. “I foot the avenue like a summer bride”…what a gorgeous line! Your imagery is so lush and rich, truly beautiful writing.%


  5. That cathedral feeling (and what a great adjective) of nature is something that I’ve felt… maybe the lack of altar is a blessing, we can forever do that walk and never the bridal target,


  6. I sometimes think it is easier to get in touch with the higher power when communing with nature rather than filling a pew. Pomp and circumstance sometimes obstruct our view.


  7. Whether it be cascading rivers, raging seas, towering mountains or majestic trees how often we are inspired by nature painting scenes to impress us. Allowing poets like yourself to write words to illustrate our feelings. Beautfifully done!


  8. Yes, the poem does fit well with yours. I’ll never view a tree-lined avenue the same again. The entire piece is evocative and pleasant, but I especially enjoyed the ending.


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