The restless Owl-boy studies Venus
What do you see Owl-boy, stirring
the feathered dark around you ?
Your hollow head, plane on the pillow,
rattling with unbecoming dice-thoughts
beside me. I see your lashes blink
their sleepless histories. The wishing star
warms to your company, her cold
knuckle bends in your favour. Breaks
empty beds half open like walnuts–
you creep from one shell to another.
Settle on a rib that tilts you skywards
and you’re out into the dark again.
*Poem by Helen Pletts whose two collections, Bottle bank and For the chiding dove, are both published by YWO/Legend Press (supported by The Arts Council) and available on Amazon. ‘Bottle bank’ was longlisted for The Bridport Poetry Prize 2006, under Helen’s maiden name of Bannister. You are welcome to visit www.stem-of-quietly-disarrayed-fertility.com.
*Image by Romit Berger who says “I am a graphic designer. I met my very dear friend, Helen Pletts, in Prague, several years ago. Helen’s inspiration has led my graphic design career into that magical realm which combines illustration and poetry, and our creative wings continue to connect our souls through time and distance.”