Red Chestnut Tree

The red chestnut speaks of a pathos released into productivity.

What ring of time

gives significance to planetary measures,

spinning reason

as white gold, like a wreath

of natural solidarity and commitment

to eternal realms beneath your branches.

My child and I took hands under the red chestnut tree

then walked along the roadside.

Her heart was a cloistered contemplation,

mine, a despairing tear, welling

up from pathos.

Could I really worry anymore

that I would not find my way

along this mercy road?

The sweet peas waved

their bonneted heads.

Emily Isaacson