We Travel Page by Page

I crack that virgin spine
with the deftness of a pro.
The scent of her potential wafts
into the deepest recesses of my brain.

It's enough for only a moment,
a cursory glance at the supine sides
already becoming supple beneath
my nimble fingers as I push the edges wide.

The anticipation is beyond containment
as I lie back on soft pillows and take
a sip of wine. There is no point of return,
the weight of my deed is filled with guilty pleasure.

And I sigh...

I gently remove the cover and peer
hungrily upon her bold delicious title
and we begin our journey together,
I turn the pages, and she, tells me her story.

Reviews

[Linda Marie Van Tassell]

All lovers of the written word can relate to this poem. When a book opens, we fall in. It's the safest way to travel to far and distant lands and a vicarious way of experiencing the yet unknowns. We have a local book store called Givens Book Store. While they are in a new building now, I much prefer the old one, with the basement that smelled of old leather-bound, gilded-paged books. I spent so many days and so many lunch hours delving through the first editions and particularly loved the ones hidden behind glass walls. Sadly, those enjoyable visits dissipated with the building of the new store. There are great modern conveniences, such as the Kindle; but in my opinion, there's just nothing like holding an actual book within your hands. I love this one, and it's refreshing to come back and read your work after having been away for so long.

[icelandicblue]

I have loved books right from my very first Dr. Suess book. Thank you Linda.

[MAC]

what a wonderful tribute to how writers love the written form. truly an amazing write!

[icelandicblue]

Thank you so much.

[emmajoy]

What you describe so wonderfully is bliss, pure and perfect bliss! The adventure of a new book, the feel and sound of it in one's hands.. a glass of wine.. comfort - sighhh .. heaven! Thank you so much for sharing.

[icelandicblue]

Emmajoy~ you are ever so kind.

[Diana]

That was much more intense than anticipated. I'll say this; your title does not give much away. Captivating from start to finish...

[icelandicblue]

Thank you...it took me a while to come up with the title. That is usually the easiest part of the whole process for me. Thanks again.

[Rita L. Sev]

Though I love my Kindle, there is nothing like the feel of an actual book - that "crack of the virgin spine" and all the rest. Your poem reminds me how fortunate it is to be allowed to read, to learn, to write freely... Enjoyed this a lot, Blue.

[icelandicblue]

I know, I know...I too have done the kindle route but there is just something about holding an entire story in your hands. Thanks so much Rita.

[Deuces]

Though this appears to be of the love we have for the written word (in the form of the book, not a kindle... the best way, lol), it can be metaphorical in so many ways, for indulgence. Missed reading your work and I plan on catching up soon. Always a fan.

[icelandicblue]

So nice to see you! Yes, this poem can take different avenues depending on how it's read. Thanks so much G.

[Skai Rain]

I love this poem! It can be taken so many different ways. Thank you for sharing :)

[icelandicblue]

Hi Brit~ thank you.

[Ruth]

Losing oneself to words is a magnificent wandering, the description here is stunning...I could feel as well as envision xo

[icelandicblue]

I love to read. I have been reading voraciously but not writing...that seems to be my pattern. Thanks Poppy.

[s y e]

Anne, forgive for my late reply, Christmas is a chaotic time of year but I have managed to escape all the parties and food for some WC time and wanted to come and read you - here I am! :)

This is amazing, really loved the title. It gets the reader thinking and then boom, here we go! I loved the last stanza, so sensual.

[icelandicblue]

No apologies needed. Thanks for your lovely comment.

[Baby Ricochet]

This could be about several things depending how one wishes to interpret it. Mysterious even. Great work blue

[icelandicblue]

Yes, this one can be read in a number of ways. Thanks Baby.