‘Rain-sounding aspen’
So Roman poets sang
Three thousand years ago
An aspen leaf beneath the tongue they said
Inspired an eloquence saluting
Those who went to tread the Underworld –
Permitting them safe passage and return
As heroes crowned with aspen
Bright green leaves then leaning into gold
Whispering a breeze of ‘buried treasure’ –
Where have they gone those friends
Of youth so teeming bright?
Sight and sound of aspen
Convert to contemplation
Seasons they imagined held them axis
Now incoming clouds accumulate
Change of atmosphere can feel mesmeric
The aspen sound their lullaby lament
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Bernard Saint
Illustration: Claire Palmer
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