First Birthday

[Norma photo]
One of the most
Important things
We can demonstrate
To our grandchildren
Is how to have
A thought.
I had one in front
Of Noah.
He pointed at it.

Contrainte Artistique

[Norma photo]
Puisque Norma a hérité
d'une statue de jardin
de saint Francis,
je l'ai construite
une petite église
catholique pour
le mettre dedans, et
ai collé des colombes
de plâtre à lui --
mais aucunes plumes
collant dehors sa bouche.

Rain Hat

[Drawing by Geo.,1966: Photo, Geo.,2010]


I remember sound from
An old house (pulled
Down long ago), water
Running off its roof
Onto brick, according
Proof to my younger
Brain of melody
Under rain.
As mirrors spread
Across the yard I
Aged and dared not
Disregard that.
Now water runs
Off my hat --time.
Time does not
Dismiss old men so
Much as shift
Where things begin.