Story Poems
In closing, I’ll read Mother’s good-bye poem and reprise her serenade. In sharing these thoughts and poems about my mother tonight, my wish is that you’ve received some benefit in your own family situation, whatever that may be.
After Julia’s death, I sorted through the belongings and papers in the big brown house where Julia and her husband Dave lived part of the year with my parents. I found recipes in every nook and cranny of the house where mother had stashed them, planning someday to write a cookbook.
At the end of her life, so much left undone.
So much promise left to be won. So much sugar left unspun.
So many recipes left in the book. So many foods left to be cooked.
So many meals left to be tasted. So many roasts left to be basted.
So many tastes left to devour. Her appetite still grows by the hour.
Even her stomach growl shows power.
Collected in boxes, bags, and barrels her recipes keep her up all night.
She comes to bed now, and we turn off the light.
“Sweet Evelina”, reprise (last verse and chorus)
The years have gone by and I haven’t a dollar,
Evalina still lives in that green grassy holler;
And though I am fated to tarry here never,
I know I shall love her forever and ever!
Chorus
Dear Evalina, Sweet Evalina
My love for you will never, never die.
Dear Evalina, Sweet Evalina,
My love for you will never, never die!
Thank You.
Poems in order of appearance:
Lotus Eater
Praising Mother
Towhee #1
Complaint Department
Queen for a Day
Crocus
Body Buddy
Scare
Butt Wipes
Safety Pin
Streaker
Five-Horse Hitch
(excerpt) Window Frame
Appetite
Song:
Sweet Evelina
How You Can Help
I love my book and want it to get out into the world so it can benefit and delight people. There are four things you can do to help that happen.
First, own your own reading copy of Sightlines: A Poet’s Diary.
Second, browse my the portion of the site on Sightlines. There are photos, poems, past talks, and background material.
Third, go to Amazon and write a review of Sightlines: A Poet’s Diary. If you indicate that you find the existing reviews helpful, that’s also good for the book.
Fourth, invite me to speak and read for your group. I am shaping readings and talks around ten different themes in Sightlines: A Poet’s Diary.
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