Monday, March 27, 2023

ELEGY FOR A CLOUD WELL PAINTED (FINAL VERSION)

 

to the last puffy cloud on the schoolroom wall

the one outlined in blue with a very large brush

held by a very small hand

I send my skyrocket rhinestone regards

they won't make much noise

just my shadow kite scudding through grass

a brisk March wind while the ghosts sing 

with their violets:

Lass With A Delicate Air;

on P.T.A. nights when the stars glittering

made even the chalkboards seem enchanted

the parents and teachers, magical beings.

my classmates, dream figments floating out onstage

how will I remember you childhood

at the last moment

will I tilt the pink sand through the tiny hourglass again

or will I fall back asleep into the chocolate christened earth

knowing that soon in the sugurplum morning

it will have to be Christmas Day

mary angela douglas 31 december 2021;27 march 2023

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