Poet of the Month--Michael Todd

Round and Round 

By Michael Todd

Round and round and round it goes.
See the motion of the falling snow.
Floats in the sphere, no place to go,
How fascinating, this snow globe.

A picture in her mind appears,
A postcard from her dad, from the lines.
Some days blurry, some days clear,
A memory frozen somewhere in her mind.

Her life in this retirement home,
She spends her time in wait.
Even in a crowd, she's alone,
Not aware of either's fate.

It was the war to end all wars.
Omaha Beach, where he arrived,
Campaign in Europe for his tour.
He never left that beach alive.

His effects sent home to the states,
He stayed behind, was buried there.
Early on, strange twist of fate;
He found that postcard lying near.

From the body of an enemy, slain,
He picked it up, this souvenir,
Bartholdi's legacy, intact, plain.
"If I make it out, I'll take the tour."

A snow globe has a porcelain base.
Filled with water, structure inside,
Turn and shake, snow flakes chase.
Left still, this image will subside.

In a chair, her final sleep, sound;
Behind a glass of water, filled to brim,
The postcard was her final vision,
Save for the one she had of him.

From the editor--It is an honor to announce that Michael Todd is January’s Poet of the Month.  A talented writer, Michael’s poems are enjoyed by Whispers’ readers.  He is an uplifting voice in our poetry community, leaving thoughtful comments that contributors appreciate.  He has actively promoted our online journal leading to the publication of new writers at Whispers. He has also collaborated with another writer for a wonderful poem that was featured at our online journal. It is a pleasure to present him with this award.
______________

Thoughts on “Round and Round ”--From the initial stanza on, Michael builds us picture of loss, loneliness, and survival.  This powerful poem takes the reader on a journey, one that allows the reader to travel along.  The sadness of the last stage of life left me wishing someone was around to love her.  This is an impressive piece, one that shows the level of Michael’s talent.
______________

Congratulations and thank you Michael!  I appreciate all you do and have done for Whispers.

Sincerely,

Karen O’Leary, Editor