avatarChris Mooney-Singh

Summary

"Empty Swing" is a reflective poem that contemplates the possible reasons for a swing's movement in nature's company, suggesting a mysterious visitor's presence.

Abstract

The poem "Empty Swing" paints a vivid picture of an empty swing set in motion, possibly by the rain, a breeze, bees, or animals like a finch, a cat, or a dog. The poem ponders whether the swing itself could know why it moves, hinting at the passage of someone unseen. The author, Chris Mooney-Singh, known for his poetry collection "The Bearded Chameleon" and appearances in anthologies, also shares his recent work in film, inviting readers to explore his website and Medium profile for more of his creative endeavors.

Opinions

  • The poem suggests a sense of wonder and mystery about who or what might have interacted with the swing.
  • The author seems to personify the swing, questioning if it retains the memory of its visitors.
  • The mention of the author's previous works and recent short film serves as a subtle self-promotion, indicating confidence in his artistic achievements.
  • The use of imagery in the poem, such as the "hand of breeze" or "gang of bees," conveys a deep connection with nature and its subtle influences on inanimate objects.

Empty Swing

a poem

Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash

Perhaps it was the rain, a hand of breeze or gang of bees that jazzed the chains.

Perhaps a finch flew up, a belled cat pounced with a tinkle, a slow dog jumped and missed then barked them all away.

Can the wooden frame tell the vacant cushions why the swing is swinging? Perhaps she came and left.

Chris Mooney-Singh’s last poetry collection was The Bearded Chameleon. His fiction has appeared in The Best Asia Speculative Fiction and Crime Scene: Singapore. Mooney-Singh’s most recent short film Looking for Mr Gelam was released in Jan 2021. See his website and meet him on Medium.

Illumination
Poetry
Reflection
Writing
Contemplation
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