Sea Level
Posted on June 12, 2018
by Linda Lee Lyberg
18 Comments
“The mountains are so dominant
that some days the people refuse
to look at them as children
turn away from the fathers who beat them”
~ Jim Harrison from Songs of Unreason
She was the mountaintop on which I stood
Breathing the pure air, cutting my teeth
on slender fingers for she would give
everything to protect, to shelter, to feed.
Fearless, she stepped into the path,
never allowing us to feel his wrath,
with her slight body blocking the way
as we cowered behind and wept
she refused to bow or ever retreat.
But even high mountains crumble into dust
and with a last breathless sigh, she gave up
from time to time, in memories I revel
yearning to smell her sweetest air
but I find myself with utter despair
now living and breathing at sea level.
Powerfully written. I loved the entire piece. In my interpretation, as I read it, I could only think of the mountain being my mother. For she was my adoring rock. I related to this.
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Yes, this is about my mother. Thank you Andrew.
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I suspected it. I interpreted it well. Blessing to her wherever she is. I can’t express enough how I loved this poem.
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I’m so happy you enjoyed it!
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Reblogged this on The Militant Negro™.
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Thank you!
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🍑🐝😘🖖😍☀️🌞🌈🤩😎🤗🤗🤗
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never give up, amen
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Exactly. Thank you!
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First-rate images of mountains – two different types. The metaphor is forceful. The poem excels!
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Thank you Jill! I’m pleased you enjoyed it.
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I don’t know where your mountain is right now….but she’d be mighty proud of this. I pray that someone likens me to a protective mountain one day. That fierce love shines right through. Love it… immensely.
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Thank you Vivian. I like to think she’s watching wherever she is.
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😊
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You were fortunate to have that mountain!
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Yes, I was to be sure. Thank you!
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Agreed with Vivian, she would love this. And inside, she’s still that mountain.
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Yes, thank you so much.
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