Several weeks ago, I discussed one of the reasons why I write – I wonder. I sit and let my mind wander. It takes me all over the world. It takes me to imaginary lands. It ushers me through time. Sadly, it can’t bless me with extra time. As of late, I’ve had no extra time…none. That’s one of the reasons why the word “Hammer” appears in the subtitle of this blog. Writing is hard work. Sometimes, finding the time to write is even harder work. Still, I was able to write this poem. It’s from my developing manuscript The Journals of Lt. Kendal Everly: Poems of the American Civil War.
Some Men
Some men – their blood is thick.
When their skin rips, their blood
doesn’t run like the blood of other men
It seeps: honey, syrup. It seeps.
Sweat can’t thin it. It doesn’t trickle.
It smears. Like a swab of paint,
it smears across a man’s skin.
Crimson paint. The color of barns
and rose petals and apples.
Like honey, it seeps. Other men,
their blood spits from their wounds,
streams across a quilt of air,
splatters the ground:
spilt wine, sweet, sweet wine.
But some men: their blood is thick.
I didn’t see a comment section on your personal page, so I’m just leaving this note here. Wanted to let you know that I have nominated you for the “Very Inspiring Blogger Award.” You can find information about it on my site. And when you read about the award, you will see that there are so-called “rules” that apply to recipients. But sometimes these rules, although well-meant, can become a burden if we let them, and I don’t want that to happen. So feel free to comply with only the parts of any “rules” that you are comfortable with. Your site is truly inspiring, and you deserve this award. Just enjoy it.
Thank you, Sandra. Your words are far too kind. I’m honored.
God bless,
Scott