Millwork

As if you could kill time without injuring eternity. - Thoreau

rising up from seasoned timber

bygone nails protrude

snagging the fabric of varnished memories

Author's Note

"Our moments of inspiration are not lost though we have no particular poem to show for them; for those experiences have left an indelible impression, and we are ever and anon reminded of them." - Thoreau

Reviews

[Ookpik]

I can't be sure if you'd intended it this way, but the image you've attached and the quotes you've left by Thoreau led me to believe that this was written in reference to crucifixion and stigmata.

I'm not sure if that was done with purpose, but regardless, there are a few words that appear out of place.

The connotation to the word 'varnished' is one of commemoration, or restoration, and the image of risen nails and seasoned lumber (timber is usually un-milled wood, and timbersmiths aren't known for working with nails) seems to contradict the feeling of stained, or varnished material (which, again, is often done to restore antiques or to finish a recent project).

The implication then is that the memories are varnished but the lumber is not - which, again, led me to the notion of stigmata - however, I'm only guessing as to author intentionality.

None the less, it was quite thought provoking and without a doubt captured my interest.

Appreciate your taking the time to share, and no offense if my interpretation missed the mark.

-Ook

[Pete]

In the United States and Canada, milled boards are called lumber, while timber describes standing or felled trees. In contrast, in Britain, many other Commonwealth nations and Ireland, the term timber is used in both senses. when i wrote this i think i used 'timber' to refer to the memories as having been felled. the nail is captive and is trying to rise up and be remembered and freed. restoration plays a big part in this. your stigmata interpretation is interesting - is something very much within the realm of my writing but was not the intention here but perhaps was in my subconscious and found it's way in. you are very astute. thank you for sharing thoughts, it is well appreciated ... :)

[emmajoy]

You've said so much in so few words, Pete. I feel there's more hidden in that clever wording.. must think. Are you experimenting with different forms of writing as this is a different style for you? (Will explore other reviews in a few seconds, see if anyone has suggested similar.) Is great to explore different styles, genres or whatever.. that said, to each his or her own. Do you like, appreciate, the feel and scent of wood, the real thing - I love it?!

[Pete]

thanks em. yes, have been experimenting. love the smell and feel of lumber ever since woodworking class in middle school. loved being in the shop and inhaling that fresh, aromatic scent and turning a raw piece into something on the lathe - we made a lamp and even wired it to plug in. love the aroma and feel of a good fire when 'tis cold - nothing more comforting. i especially love old barns and buildings - if you listen closely i swear they speak to you of their history ... :)

[lightsong]

and when the times come these saved words of inspiration will be revealed into poems. I feel the intensity through your words, like a birth from the darkness, that intensity which comes before a powerful written piece, like always brilliant poetry dear Pete.

[Pete]

thank you. so kind. i can tell that you have the true heart of a poet from your pieces and comments - lots of truth, feeling and emotion ... :)

[jacob erin-cilberto]

we just have to pull those nails out....we have to get rid of them, or we will forever be snagged by the past.
j.

[Pete]

thanks j. yes, no good to be snagged. now where did i put that clawed hammer ... :)

[R.J Calzonetti (Siniste..]

I really enjoyed this poem. You said a lot with few words.

[Pete]

thanks rj. watch out for rusty nails ... :)

[Dave Brown]

I relate strongly to the image you have chosen
It is almost like an old warm bedfellow having been used in so many applications throughout our area
Somehow the rot and remainder seem finally at peace

[Pete]

there's something about old barns and buildings - it's as if they have a life their own, so much history in them. an extension of those who built and dwelled in them. they have always fascinated me. there are people who salvage old wood and nails to be reused. thanks for the nice share dave ... :)

[Julie McCarthy (juliesp..]

Very interesting metaphor of the mail and timber
Reminded me of an old table or old rotting country house or cabin it’s timber showing the memories of past laughter life
Loved it

[Pete]

you've hit the nail right on the head julie. places like you mention intrigue me. thanks for sharing thoughts ... :)

[Julie McCarthy (juliespenhere)]

No worries
My partner takes pics on drives of old houses run down paints such history in an old thing

[Sami Khalil]

This one speaks volumes in short, powerful lines. Title and poem reflect life as a work shop; a creative one and a hard working one. Nothing comes easy. We really use lots of wood and fabric in our lives. Nails have lots of meanings. Excellent, meaningful poem.

[Pete]

thank you for hammering it home sami ... :)

[Sami Khalil]

Hehehe. That is clever. You are welcome sir Pete.

[Sami Khalil]

This one speaks volumes in short, powerful lines. Title and poem reflect life as a work shop; a creative one and a hard working one. Nothing comes easy. We really use lots of wood and fabric in our lives. Nails have lots of meanings. Excellent, meaningful poem.

[Chris Shaw]

Really like this piece Pete, a strong metaphorical write.

snagging the fabric of varnished memories is an excellent line. Well done. Posted image is striking in its simplicity. Thinking about the possibilities for that seasoned timber.

Chris

[Pete]

thanks chris. i told you i was gonna' try a senryu after reading your's. now i'm hooked on them. gonna' try some more ... :)

[Chris Shaw]

You know Pete, they are very addictive :) Be warned. Have a great day.

[Pete]

i was just reading that the first and third lines are supposed to be 5 syllables with the second line having 7 ... :)

[Chris Shaw]

I have seen them vary often. When I do mine they are in this format 5/7/5 so that is 17 syllables altogether. Red 73 when he does his, makes them even shorter. Best look them up to see which version you are comfortable with. I love the brevity of this structure.