Ode To A Nestling

Summary

"Ode To A Nestling" is a heartfelt poem by Sana Rose from her collection 'Songs of Motherhood', expressing a mother's deep emotional connection and desires for her daughter.

Abstract

"Ode To A Nestling" is a poignant piece from Sana Rose's 'Songs of Motherhood' that captures the tender bond between a mother and her daughter. The poem conveys the mother's wish for her child to maintain her innocence and need for maternal comfort while also acknowledging the necessity for the child to grow independent. It reflects on the delicate balance between nurturing and protecting a child, and letting them face the world with their own strength. The poem was inspired by the author's personal experience as a new mother, marking the end of a writing hiatus and the beginning of a series of poems that explore the transformative journey of motherhood.

Opinions

The poet expresses a desire for her daughter to retain her childlike need for her mother's touch and presence, despite the inevitable growth and change.
There is a recognition of the world's harsh realities and a hope that the daughter will not be overwhelmed by fear, yet also a reluctance to pass on the poet's own anxieties.
The poem suggests that the daughter is a source of light and guidance for the mother, particularly in difficult times.
Sana Rose's work reveals a deep emotional investment in the joys and challenges of motherhood, emphasizing the enduring bond between mother and child.
The creation of the poem is presented as a cathartic and necessary act for the poet, signifying a return to her craft and a new phase in her life as a mother and writer.

A poem from my collection ‘Songs of Motherhood’

Little one, do not grow up too much, do not please get over the need for my touch, do not, pray, outgrow the home in my arms...

My baby, the world outside feeds on your ephemeral fears, yet, do not cling forever onto me, lest I feed you my fears...

My nestling, please never cease needing to wrap your fingers around my drying palm, your subtle wings over my aching, aging heart...

My daughter, fear not to light up with that wondrous smile, for, in the darkest hours, I would want to find my way through you...

Poet’s note:

Written on January 5th, 2015, when my baby girl was 4 months old. As a new mother, I had a really long and desperate break from writing. And then one day, I knew just what I had to write to break through it. I began a series of poems titled Songs of Motherhood in which I poured out everything that made me a mother. This poem is the first in the series and a dozen have followed it so far.

Ode To A Nestling

A poem from my collection ‘Songs of Motherhood’

Poet’s note:

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