avatarJosie P. Julius

Summary

"An Owl’s Prayer" is a reflective poem that captures the serene communication between an owl and its environment, symbolizing a spiritual connection and the transcendence of physical barriers.

Abstract

The poem "An Owl’s Prayer" paints a vivid picture of an owl's solemn ritual in a forest setting, where the bird's physical posture and vocalizations are likened to a sacred ceremony. The owl's call, described as music from a church organ, breaks a monk-like silence and resonates through the spring-tinged wind. This evocative call receives a comforting response from the depths of the owl's soul, echoing back a message of presence and reassurance. The poem suggests that the exchange transcends the physical barriers of the forest, such as the trees and the darkness, creating a profound connection that is both pure and intimate.

Opinions

  • The poem conveys a sense of spirituality and reverence in the owl's actions, akin to prayer or meditation.
  • The author uses musical metaphors to describe the owl's hooting, elevating the bird's natural behavior to the realm of sacred music.
  • There is an underlying theme of interconnectedness, as the owl's call bridges the gap between itself and its surroundings, including other creatures.
  • The poem suggests that nature has its own language and rituals, which can be as solemn and meaningful as human religious practices.
  • The imagery of the poem implies that the natural world offers a form of solace and communion for those who are attuned to its subtleties.

An Owl’s Prayer

A poem of forest traditions

Photo by Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz from Pexels

Owl bows, head down, tail high for balance,

pressing out tones from church organ bellows.

A silent monk til this spring-tinged wind

coaxes notes from the well of his soul,

ferries back an echo, transposed —

I’m here,

Yes, here —

a pillow of comfort

to once-troubled ears.

The trees between us meaningless, the armored darkness yields,

our breaths connect, their paths direct —

pure and deep — you, you.

Nature
Poetry
Birds
Free Verse
Love
Recommended from ReadMedium
avatarHermione Wilds Writes - Writer and editor
And Dances Freely on the Wires

Poem with Art

3 min read