Really great use of a rest here, in terms of (1) placement within the poem—you let the rhythm establish itself first and then provided a slight reprieve to keep it fresh; and (2) its use draws emphasis to "there it lay," which appropriately emphasizes the importance of the line. It's almost as if we're coming across it ourselves, right in that moment along with the writer.
It's a small thing but it's really well-done; reminds me of Robert Leckie's use of "Listen" in his poem, "Helmet for my Pillow." Same kind of deliberate use.
I appreciate this not just for its brevity (a sterling trait, in any case), but for the simplicity of the experience. There is no easter egg hunt for allusions here, which one finds with so much "devotional" poetry.
Minor point but I think it's an important one:
"of anything so sweet—
there it lay:"
Really great use of a rest here, in terms of (1) placement within the poem—you let the rhythm establish itself first and then provided a slight reprieve to keep it fresh; and (2) its use draws emphasis to "there it lay," which appropriately emphasizes the importance of the line. It's almost as if we're coming across it ourselves, right in that moment along with the writer.
It's a small thing but it's really well-done; reminds me of Robert Leckie's use of "Listen" in his poem, "Helmet for my Pillow." Same kind of deliberate use.
Thank you James. I'm always honored by your comments, esp. when they're so positive.
I appreciate this not just for its brevity (a sterling trait, in any case), but for the simplicity of the experience. There is no easter egg hunt for allusions here, which one finds with so much "devotional" poetry.
Thank you Peter. I know what you mean!
I love this imagery.