Today’s model poem is How to Listen by Major Jackson. A few years ago I read this poem and used the title as a jumping off point for a new poem of my own with the same title. That one turned into a a pretty angry poem so I wanted to give it another try.
How to Listen
Go outside
find a spot in the sun
the garden is best
close your eyes, gently
inhale
exhale
breathe slowly
slower still
repeat
until nature’s orchestra
hums in your ear
Susan Taylor Brown
Yes, Exactly! Every word perfect! Its relaxing just to read this one. Love the last two lines especially. And I agree, the garden is best.
Thanks, ellie. I want to come back and dink with this a little but I’m glad to know the relaxing mood I was going for came across the screen.
Beautiful!
Thank you!
Sorry I’ve missed so many posts, Susan. Your recent ones are good, & I find this so useful to be collecting mentor texts for my use, too. Thank you for that. Your poem is terrific, & I love those last two lines.
Thanks, Linda. I’m really struggling now to find more known poems to use that are available to be read online but I hope to make it through the month. I’m going to collect everything into an ebook of some kind I think when I’m done to make it easier for teachers and other poets to use.
DO WE LISTEN
Do we listen ?
Really Listen
Nature has its own melody
One that can never compare
From the silent footsteps of a fly
To the roar of a lion
If you take the time to listen
The experience is rewarding
The relaxing rhythm, precision
Of waves rolling up on the sand
To the cries of birds in the trees
Waiting for their mother’s return
Or the familiar sound of a crow
In search of his daily food
The laughter of children at play
The jumbling sound of people rushing
Getting on with their daily routine
The list is endless
The most important thing of all
Is to listen to your heart
Even though it makes no sound
It teaches the greatest lesson of all
The vein of our existence
– Life
– Anne McKenna
You are on fire this month, Anne. More good work.