Doug Bolling

Variation N24

 
In the distant room
a hush as of wild birds
suddenly at peace

a clock journeys wrapped in
the hour’s demand

do not be deceived the
ancient one whispered

across the impossible space

beyond the window
a clamor a cry of  a past

there will be shadows and a
broken cello

and the words in a distance
how they claw and scratch
against the door
sealed.

Doug Bolling's poetry has appeared in Juked, Indefinite Space, s/word, Poetry Pacific, Roanoke Review, and Five20ne Review, among others. He has received Pushcart and Best of the Net nominations and several awards. He lives near Chicago, having retired from college teaching.