ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

POINT OF IMPACT … Maureen Clifford © The Scribbly Bark Poet


There are unseen constellations in the dark heavens above
for the eyes have not the strength to see that far
though the moons of Saturn circle and the pole star shines so bright
we are just a minute speck – another star.

We’re a mere drop in the ocean, just a gathering of dust,
a planet blessed with cooling summer showers.
A planet that seems hell bent on destroying what we have.
Filled with despots with abusive use of powers.

And we sit comfy cozy in our homes and at our hearths
and marvel at the drifts of golden leaves
then read the tabloids daily and gaze gobsmacked at the news
horrified en masse by the wars, deaths, disease.

And yet the point of impact still it seems must make its point .
The writing's in the dust and on the wall.
We’re barking up the wrong tree and we’re showing no respect
to our elders, to the world to none at all.

And do we think that we will all be totally exempt
when the cataclysmic final days arrive?
At the going down of the sun and the last dark day of life
will the penny drop? Mankind may not survive.

And will we then remember it was good to be alive
“Too late, too late, too late” the Mother cried

Very thought-provoking and insightful, Maureen.

Regards, Shelley

So true Maureen - and uncannily like a couple of poems on this same subject I've written myself so we are really on the 'same page' in this respect. I totally agree with Shelley's comments, and like your title, rhythm and the way you've used the 'going down of the sun' line too. We all need reminders to jolt us out of our complacency in this respect - really enjoyed the poem.

Beautifully said, Maureen

Sadly, the western civilisation is too arrogant and self absorbed to understand the consequences of showing no respect to the fragility of Mother Earth.

Regrettably, it will be the generations to follow who will pay the ultimate price of our folly.

Allan