Indian Pipe

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Kenneth2816
Posts: 1619
Joined: 01 Jun 2008, 09:17

Indian Pipe

#1 Post by Kenneth2816 » 22 Jun 2022, 18:07

Also called Ghost Plant, it takes
its name from the shape.

Emily Dickinson called it the
"preferred flower of life",waxy

white, like the pale Victorian gown
she wore, never leaving the house

for fifteen years; huddled with her
bouquet, she stayed in her room

during her father's funeral with
the door only slightly ajar.

Legend says the plant emerges
only where there is discord or

sadness among family and friends,
needs no sun and like Emily,

is parasitic, feeding off the vibrancy
of others, deathless and rare.

BobBradshaw
Posts: 2683
Joined: 03 Jun 2016, 21:03

Re: Indian Pipe

#2 Post by BobBradshaw » 22 Jun 2022, 20:51

Strong example of extended metaphor...I like how you intertwine the Emily details...especially the father's death. When I first read the poem the word "parasitic" was jolting. After maybe the 5th reading I was fine with it. I'm not sure if it's a weakness or strength. A very enjoyable read.

Kenneth2816
Posts: 1619
Joined: 01 Jun 2008, 09:17

Re: Indian Pipe

#3 Post by Kenneth2816 » 23 Jun 2022, 05:25

Thanks Bob. She was parasitic like a voyeur is parasitic, vicariously.

capricorn
Posts: 382
Joined: 21 Sep 2017, 23:23

Re: Indian Pipe

#4 Post by capricorn » 29 Jun 2022, 03:32

Amazing poem, Ken. I love the metaphor.

Legend says the plant emerges
only where there is discord or
sadness among family and friends,

Fascinating details. Really enjoyed reading this.

Eira

Kenneth2816
Posts: 1619
Joined: 01 Jun 2008, 09:17

Re: Indian Pipe

#5 Post by Kenneth2816 » 01 Jul 2022, 09:29

Thanks guys

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