Ascension

While man is fickle and often fails, his nobler aspirations offer hopes of ascendency

 

Stonehenge in England.  Early evidence of man making his mark on the world, an "ascendency" of sorts.

 

Mean in birth, rises Man,

     seeking wisdom, is transformed,

          base clay to pure gold.

  

 

 

 

©2008, Richard Puetter

 

Author's Note

Yes, I know, 6-7-5, not 5-7-5. Perhaps I'm too much in love with the opening line.

Reviews

[Emily Rose]

I am quite sure that this is the best almost-haiku I've ever read. You've packed so much into a small space, and used to few words that it's incredibly impressive. Such a wonderful view of knowledge - turning our original muddy clay (or rib, for us females) to something precious. Wonderfully done! I'm a little confused about the Stonehenge picture that accompanies it, though. What's the story there?

[Arthur Henn]

5-7-5

Rick, its ok to break the rules, my brother

Good old past history (Stonehenge) If I could only crawl in under the first hardened cell of the first stone raised and listen to what it has to say...

[Katherine Wyatt]

I think Stonehenge is perfect for this piece..The title fits the piece perfectly..the last line clinches it for me!

[M Bacchus]

Wow! I am in awe of his haiku, for all that it says, to me it tells of mans continuous strive to be the best, with the least, always onward and upward, even when he knows its almost impossible to reach such heights. this is excellent.
Michael

[Lyra H]

I love its rhythm, its perfect.

[Silent Kim aka mizmetap..]

Very profound, short words, heavy insight. Well expressed.

[C.T. Bailey]

From birth man arises as a constant work in progress. His acension contingent upon his gathering up of that around him. His treasures found in his quest and not the destination. This also begs the question however, how are those transformed who neither seek wisdom nor transformation? For we are all transformed - some to clay pots...some to golden chalices. How can I offer improvement upon such a fine work...in fact...who am I to review this type of writing? Rick you are so incredibly intellectual and write upon a plain of understanding that only a few may well be positioned to offer sound criticism. Thank you for the write...
Your friend,
Todd

[[untitled]]

Well then....I like the idea but rarely find it to be true. Few seek wisdom. However this idea and poem are excellent.

[Siddartha Beth Pierce]

I would that all were made of golden hearts here. Nicely penned - stunning image. Thank you for sharing this. Quite lovely and uplifting.
Light,
Siddartha

[Leah Simone]

This is such a strong statement - from clay to gold - I hope it is true - makes me feel better to believe so.

Great poem - the brevity of it only made it that much stronger.