At Big Bone Lick River by J. Patrick Lewis

At Big Bone Lick River
by
J. Patrick Lewis

Deaf to raindrops peppering the water,

Two herons laser onto tadpole snacks.

Tadpoles glimpse the submarine (an otter),

Sublimely unaware of air attacks.

A thunderstorm is manna to the river.

Ambling cows have felt it all before.

“Hear the pitter-pattering?” says the beaver.

Her kittens bicker on a hickory floor.

A doubtful owl opens one eye. His ruling

On raindrop felonies: disturbing sleep.

Grateful snails and slugs begin refueling.

A log-lorn frog finally decides to leap.

Watching the stirring world becomes the humbling,

Magnificent event it’s always been.

Dazzled, I wonder what’s the point in fumbling

With my umbrella. I’ve come home again.

J. Patrick Lewis was the U.S. Children's Poet Laureate from 2011-2013. Author of 85 children’s picture/poetry books and veteran of more than 500 visits to elementary schools around the world, J. Patrick spent many years as an economics professor before becoming a full-time writer. A resident of Westerville, Ohio, he is a twin, a fact he says "has shaped my life indelibly and delightfully from the womb." Pat is also the author of a collection of poetry for adults, Gulls Hold Up the Sky, and a nonfiction poetry primer for teachers. Learn more about him at www.jpatricklewis.com.

Dorcas:
Metaphors and/or transfer of imaging from practical to modern. I walked through drizzle all day without rain gear. My hair was enough. No bumbershoot needed out on this prairie. Thank you.
Posted 10/06/2013 03:28 PM

Ross Kightly:
We can see here that the author has learned the difficult craft of writing transparent poetry through which depths can be seen - I love the comment about the umbrella, which suggests so much.
Posted 10/01/2013 01:58 PM

TheSilverOne:
Wonderful use of words and rhyme. Enjoyed reading this.
Posted 10/01/2013 10:24 AM

paradea:
What rhythm and fun in each line. A wondrous poem to start off a day, just right!!
Posted 10/01/2013 07:27 AM

Jean D:
What a wonderful poem, every line is my favorite! I hope we get to read more of him! Jean D
Posted 10/01/2013 06:06 AM

laurasalas:
Oh, that ending! What fantastic details throughout--my favorite is "Her kittens bicker on a hickory floor." Wonderful to see one of our best children's poets here!
Posted 10/01/2013 05:42 AM

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