Burning the Old Year

by Naomi Shihab Nye

Letters swallow themselves in seconds.

Notes friends tied to the doorknob,

transparent scarlet paper,

sizzle like moth wings,

marry the air.

So much of any year is flammable,

lists of vegetables, partial poems.

Orange swirling flame of days,

so little is a stone.

Where there was something and suddenly isn’t,

an absence shouts, celebrates, leaves a space.

I begin again with the smallest numbers.

Quick dance, shuffle of losses and leaves,

only the things I didn’t do

crackle after the blazing dies.

 

Comments

[Jen Crossley]

Deb what a beautiful poem it made me sad.Beautiful Picture Deb
Happy New year my friend
Love
Jen

[Renee Khan]

Deb I am sorry that you understand what I am talking about. I wish you didn't have to know it either.

Love Renee xoxo

[Leslie M.]

Deb, this is beautiful! I love the poem and the overlay. Do you mind sharing where this came from?

Wishing you the happiest and most peaceful of new years.

[Melissa S.]

Beautiful sentiment. Beautiful image. Happy New Year, my friend!

[Renee Khan]

Happy New Year darling.

xoxoxo

[LaWendula]

Happy new year, Deb, may 2010 be artful, lightful, joyful!

Great bundles!

All the Best from LaWendula

[Barb]

Hi Deb,
Beautiful post -- Happy New Year !!
Barb in Texas

[caterina giglio]

how gorgeous in vision and word!
Happy New Year, dear Deb! sending you love and peace, health and wealth this year! xoxox cat

[joanne thieme huffman]

Perfect picture for the poem! Happy New Year!

[Marilyn Rock]

Deb; this poem is so appropriate and meaningful! I love it - thank you! Best wishes to you and yours for a healthy, peaceful and joyous New Year! I look forward to sharing more art and life with you in 2010!

Love - Marilyn xxoo