Between
If our lives were lived in a straight line
like holding ends of a jump rope–
one turner madness, the other magic,
we would learn to rise in rhythm
with each arc of the rope and all that happens
in a moment of becoming airborne.
Between the landing and next jump
are the daily interactions that prove us human:
The nod of passing hikers scaling an uphill trail.
The placing of coins in a palm by the shopkeeper
after asking how your elderly mother is doing.
A screen door held open or gently shut
after shared cups of chamomile tea on a rainy day.
The manicurist who shapes your nails into a spring color palette.
A pitanga bush overhanging the bridge
never failing to drop its red dappled berries into the lap of April.
Each handshake, hug, and embrace
is a life in the telling, stories that will end
in a skip, jump, and final landing
between madness and magic.
*
Laurie Kuntz loves when her work finds a home in ONE ART. Other places her poetry has appeared are: Sparks of Calliope, Sheila Na Gig, Gyroscope Review, Anti-Heroin Chic, 3rd Wednesday, Ibbetson Street and others. After four previous nominations, she won a Pushcart Prize in 2024.
From The Archives: Published on This Day
- Two Poems by Jade Han (2023)
- Six Poems by Luke Johnson (2022)
- Phase Change by Scott Edward Anderson (2021)
- Two Poems by Francine Witte (2020)
Wonderful poem
Love the metaphor….even for “Double Dutch”!
This is a beautiful rumination, and the concept of living within and between madness and magic is fabulous.
True and beautiful
Your words make it so easy to visualize the scene Laurie!
As always, Laurie, your images are so evocative and expressive. Wonderful poem!
Great poem. I really enjoyed it.
Creative poem, nice imagery and details.
Great poem
Beautifully written
The authors poem is so honest , descriptive & relevant
Each read provides much to think on !
Really enjoyed !
Yes, death is always just a breath away. Beautiful poem!
I love this poem and the feeling I get thinking about the rhythm
Of jumping rope and the Rhythm of everyday life! Always love your poetry
Ruby
I really like this poem. Like the overall metaphor.
Beautiful poem – especially loved this: A pitanga bush overhanging the bridge
never failing to drop its red dappled berries into the lap of April.