Writing Samples

Poetry

The Barn

The sun's last rays scatter
through the bones
of a giant grey skeleton

A barn
of ancient timbers
leans against
the evening breeze

Each rock
in the massive foundation
holds the sun's warmth
as they have for ninety years

Once rugged beams
green with sap
lent their strong
back to hold up
a way of life
The breadth of roof
sheltered dreams

Now, the dreams rot
with the last good crop
and spill out of the broken ribs

The Barn-1997 Poetry Institute of Canada National Poetry Contest--4th place