A Brief History of God

This is a serious poetry forum not a "love-in". Post here for more detailed, constructive criticism.
Post Reply
jisbell00
Perspicacious Poster
Perspicacious Poster
Posts: 5623
Joined: Sat May 21, 2022 4:53 am

Fri Feb 23, 2024 8:35 am

A Brief History of God


Running water, running through the mind.
The eye at night. The blue the iris views.
Could this be some new world? Or is it all
a place we knew in childhood? Where I’ve trod
has its strange constellations, but it fills
the burning heart, it is no mystery.
And now the sun stands still. The running water
begins and ends this history of God.


The rose is sick, it can’t be well.
The broken branch will not reknit.
I who heard angels like a bell
am changed, there is no stopping it.

Clay climbs his hill again. And from the top:
the same dull plain of sorrow. Every soul
is prisoner, nor will that ever stop.
He pauses – it’s the same long rigmarole.
There is no harvest for this bitter crop.

Clay’s back is broad and made for carrying.
His legs are strong; they will not fail the test.
Let dawn break; Clay will not, he’ll be unvarying.
Come take a look. He has forgot the rest.
User avatar
CalebPerry
Perspicacious Poster
Perspicacious Poster
Posts: 3078
Joined: Wed Jul 11, 2018 11:26 am

Sat Feb 24, 2024 6:30 am

I gather that Clay is a character in the Bible, right? I suspect there is a story in there that would make the meaning of this poem more apparent.
Signature info:
If you don't like the black theme, it is easy to switch to a lighter color. Just ask me how.
If I don't critique your poem, it is probably because I don't understand it.
jisbell00
Perspicacious Poster
Perspicacious Poster
Posts: 5623
Joined: Sat May 21, 2022 4:53 am

Sat Feb 24, 2024 6:55 am

Good question, Caleb! No, Clay is my middle and family name (well, CLaiborne). Maybe that helps? Clay pops up a few times in the MS.

Cheers,
John
Post Reply