This morning I woke one of four.
Two above, one below,
Junctions on an inverted tree,
Twigs becoming branches,
Spreading outwards to form new buds
Even as the boughs fade into thinning tales,
Superseded by new life.
Tonight I lay down one of three,
Just one above,
The one beyond consigned to memory
Still readily recalled, still fading, fast.
We asked him once, in one hundred years,
What was the best bit?
I hope tonight your soul takes flight,
That left and right, those dappled wings spread out,
The propeller turning in steady circles,
And on your flank that roundel mark,
Red, white and blue, I think, meant less to you
Than the sky beneath your wings.
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Comments (23)
Congratulations on having your story featured as a top story on Vocal! This is a remarkable achievement, and it's clear why your work has received such recognition. Your storytelling is truly exceptional. The narrative was not only compelling but also beautifully crafted, holding my attention from start to finish. The way you developed the characters and plot was masterful, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking. Your unique voice and perspective shine through, setting your work apart. It’s evident that you poured a lot of passion and effort into this piece, and it has certainly paid off. I look forward to reading more of your incredible stories in the future. Keep up the fantastic work! Best regards, Dr. Jay
You paint amazing images with your words.
Lovely that you had your grandfather for so many years. My last grandparent died when I was 22… I was blessed to know two of them.🩵
oh, my heart. May you feel the hugs meant for you
So much feeling, gratitude, and longing in these words. I am sure he knows and loves them.
The cycle of life and the passing of time are beautifully captured. The imagery of the inverted tree, branches spreading, and fading tales evoke a sense of growth, change, and the inevitable passage into memory. The poem pays tribute to a departed soul, expressing a wish for their spirit to soar freely. The reference to flight and the symbolic significance of the sky beneath one's wings adds a touch of grace and wonder to the poem. It is a touching homage that reminds us of the ephemeral nature of life and the enduring power of cherished memories. We‘re deeply moved by the poem. Loved it.
Beautiful words, Hannah. So sorry for your loss.
Beautiful tribute ❤️
Great wording. Congratulations on top story.
Back to say congratulations on your Top Story! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
Back to say Congrats on Top Story Hannah!! 🎉
Sorrow propels our souls to express in so many different ways; you know your way. XX
So sorry for your loss, Hannah, and what a beautiful tribute!
Back to say, congrats on Top Story - even if that doesn't really matter much!
I'm at a loss of words, a beautiful tribute Hannah! Sorry for your loss! 💚
An absolutely beautiful tribute! Stunning imagery of family tree generations
beautiful tribute!
So sorry Hannah ❤️ But what a gorgeous tribute this is.
Oh Hannah, life is cruel. I hope you're feeling okay, sending lot of love your way! 💌
Sorry for your loss, Hannah. Truly, sending hugs, love and like a nice coffee (you are not a big fan of chocolate...so ditched the hot chocolate with all the works approach). This was a very beautiful poem, though, just to point that out. Love the phrasing and the rhythm. Lovely tribute.
This was so emotional. Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️
Gosh. This was so powerful. Phenomenal writing.
Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few. Beautiful elegy! I am sorry for your loss, Hannah.