Poet of the Month--ayaz daryl nielsen

Otiose 

By ayaz daryl nielsen

Often I go to the mountain
and lean against
quiet rock
quiet rocks that
rose from the earth
millions of years ago

Again, a black brim hat
for damp morning mist
a quiet rock
to lean against
beneath aspen leaves
among aster, columbine,
pasque and penstemon

Maybe there’s more I can do
beyond what I have willed
and may have accomplished

Resting beside quiet rock
that rose from the earth
millions of years ago
Plenty enough for this fine day.
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From the editor--It is an honor to announce that ayaz daryl nielsen is March’s Poet of the Month.  A talented writer and the editor of bear creek haiku, ayaz’s poems are enjoyed by Whispers’ readers.  He is an uplifting voice in our poetry community, leaving thoughtful comments that contributors appreciate.  ayaz has promoted our online journal by advertising it at his website.  He has also written collaborative poems and participated in  Whispers’ activities.  It is a pleasure to present him with this award.
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Thoughts on “Otiose ”--The poem starts out with an intriguing title that captured my interest.  Titles are important as they have the ability to lure readers in.  The relationship between the title and the repeated use of rock paces this poem in a cohesive way.  The creative use of imagery adds life and unites the narrator to the place he or she finds rest.  It is also interesting to ponder that this person is delving into thoughts and feels connected to events a million years ago.  This is a fascinating piece.
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Congratulations and thank you ayaz!  I appreciate all you do and have done for Whispers.

Sincerely,

Karen O’Leary, Editor