It is the season of the vulture: they have shattered the wheel
of time on its axis: winged splinters, tearing up the clouds.
O traveller! See how they pick apart the bones of the sun?
Toni is our host in the Imaginary Garden, where she asks us to Season Your Poetry.
One of my favourite forms of Oriental poetry is Sijo, which I have attempted here, and in keeping with the present season in South Africa, which is late Summer.
These photos were taken a few weeks ago, when we followed the circle of vultures to their feeding ground.
Wow! This is really stunning, Kerry. Just beatiful, especially picking apart the bones of the sun.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sherry. The form is challenging, for all it is three lines long.. I had to choose words carefully, and keep an eye on the tone.
DeleteI wonder, if the bones of the sun are made of light. And if so, can life feed from it? I think yes. I'll choose yes. Yes.
ReplyDeleteYes, let us choose light.
DeleteThis paints such a vivid scene... vultures connects so much with death, yet without them, who would clean the bones?
ReplyDeleteThe carrion-eaters have their place.
DeleteFabulous words tightly wound and the image is amazing. You followed them the kill? What was it?
ReplyDeleteIt was a dead antelope, but not their kill. Sometimes the farmer put out carcasses for them to eat.
DeleteBeautiful start, Kerry. The vultures are among the most patient of birds, waiting for meals and not killing as prey. And good on the Spring Equinox, it generally comes in either stormy weather and introduction to tornado season. But specific treatment to travelers of some being or some force messing with the bones of the son!! Heaven forbid.
ReplyDeleteBut nice, Kerry, three lines which will remain memory for some time.
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It is the Autumn equinox in my parts, Jim, but plenty of storms. The birds roam over huge territories looking for food.
DeleteThis is so visceral. I love the image of vultures picing apart the bones of the sun. This form looks fascinating.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vivian. I like the form, as it gives a few more syllables to play with.
DeleteAmazing use of form here Kerry and the imagery really sets the scene powerfully!
ReplyDeleteLove the ending on this poem, Kerry.
ReplyDeleteThis is three lines full of stunning imagery, Kerry! I love the ‘winged splinters, tearing up the clouds’ and picking apart the bones of the sun.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Kim. I tried to convey something of the moment with the images.
DeleteI love the sijo form, and this is the most brilliant example I've ever seen.
ReplyDeleteWow! High praise indeed. Thank you so much.
DeleteI thought I had commented, but evidently not. That last line is a scythe, Kerry ~
ReplyDeleteThank you, M.
Delete