Haibun – Isolation Spring
Days in isolation tend to blur. The lock down in this COVID-19 spring is different from my past. I’ve spent hiding from palpable danger, that made your heartbeat race. For example, when I was young I lived in Chad. That spring, I didn’t need anyone to tell me to stay at home because there were armed bands of rebels and government soldiers roaming the streets. One knew there was death outside. Death which could break down the door and come into your home.
in the night
tat tat tat tat
–silence
In Italy when spring arrives, days are warm. Larks and blackbirds would warble their delight in the early morning. Children would be out in the streets going to school. A couple of gossips would be standing on the corner exchanging all their news. I’d walk down from my house to the cafe to read the newspaper and drink an espresso. Enjoying the sunshine and the freedom of movement without a coat. Ah … memories.
chattering
warm sounds of spring
new life
Now it’s spring. Thank heavens the birds still sing and the days are still warm. But they tell me that we’re in danger. No one will break down my door with guns, though some dramatic politicians and news people speak of a global war. I find it difficult to feel afraid here in my Italian valley. Everything is even too peaceful as everyone is shut away. We live in an age of the miracles in our modern age. I never would have thought that a sneeze would cause fear.
in the street
aaachoo
–silence
gsk ’20
I do rember you sharing here, years ago a little about your experience in Chad and I could not even imagine such fear. Georgia, you have a way of writing beautifully without scaring or shocking the reader. This is a message of how serious this is, how scary this is but you manage to express it in a soft and subtle manner. These are truly words from a very gifted and wise writer. Merci et bravo, ma chère! xx
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Ah Oliana … what a wonderful comment you have made and you make me feel as though I can really write. Thanks ever so much! Hugs.
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You ARE a gifted writer and poet…I learned so much from you. Perhaps dust off some of your old posts and share all the varied poetry genres you write.
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Sounds like a good idea and maybe will keep me away from reading about that crazy man in the United States.
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Another beautifully written journal of what the days in this spring of 2020 are for the world. Not all have the ability to write the thoughts and events so the days of isolation can be experienced 20 years from now. Be safe, my friend.
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