Sol sistere
So. The sun stands still.
And for half a heartbeat
The year is balanced
Like a coin on its edge.
On the sarsen-studded hill
They watch the light
Flare round the hele stone
As white-robed priests
Chant Alban Hefin incantations
In a strange, forgotten tongue.
Then the clock ticks
And tips us over
To start the long slow roll
Down into darkness
Where Alban Arthan waits
Crowned with holly, bound in iron.
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Very atmospheric Nick.
I was reading a poem this morning by a friend who lives in South Australia. Her poem celebrates the winter solstice. Your poem provides me with the contrast
David
Thanks, David – I’d be really interested to read your friend’s poem; where can I find it?
You can find her work Nick at http://tikarmavodicka.wordpress.com
Many thanks, my friend – I’ve just been over and had a look. It’s a fine piece of work; always exciting to discover a new voice.
Hi Nick, lovely poem 🙂 Midsummer is an inspiration alright 🙂
Thank you, Ina – it’s definitely a magical moment. Just ask Shakespeare!
A very fine and beautiful piece on the Summer Solstice. I’m glad I stopped by to read.
Despite my being in the south I could still feel the warmth radiating from your beautifully penned words and the magic one feels come mid-summer.
Thankyou for sharing. 🙂
Hi TIkarma – thank you so much for your visit, and your generous comment. I love your work, too, and I’ve added you to my blogroll. Look forward to reading more!
“The year is balanced..Like a coin on its edge.’ this is one of those lines you wished that you had written…brilliant poem.
Generous as ever, Charles – thank you so much.