ARTHUR TURFA

ARTHUR

TURFA

MY SECOND MEMORY

Blackberry and raspberry bushes in

several long lines at the back of our

acre, next to the peach trees and big shed.

In bright sunlight, the day not very hot,

my mother and I are out with baskets,

hers filling up, I eat more than I pick.

The berries’ sweetness amazes me like

nothing else had before. When I see them now

I remember a simple, sweet life.

DIPTYCH: THE WINDOW

AT PAZO DE MARIÑÁN. LA CORUÑA

I

Through the open window stream strong

sunlight, smells, sounds of places that

beckon me. I want to walk across

the lawn, ascend the stairs, explore

what is beyond the tree line. After

awhile  I will look back towards the house

to see how far I have come. If I see you’

in the window, I will return  at once.

But if not, the gentle breeze shall carry me

along new paths to the far horizons.

II

Eyes indeed are lamps to the

soul. Not only receiving light,

they illuminate what lies behind

them. Each day blesses me with the

light you have shared with me,

flooding me with warmth and wonder.

When troubled times surround me,

I remember the light glowing

from the distance. Nothing can ever

diminish that light, nor extinguish it.

Continued comfort, constant joy

may you find in my light to you.

THE LADY FROM TOMORROW

in memory of Allene Angelica

One day ahead of where I am

the Lady from Tomorrow told

of slender islands ringed with

pristine beaches set in

turquoise waters, warmed by

red suns. Her eyes had witnessed

so much of life yet reflected

those whom she loved. Joy

rose from her words whether

spoken to all or to you.

Somehow she remains ahead

of where I am, in a Tomorrow

that knows neither sunrise nor

sunset, where light reflects on

those beaches and waters

encircling the island.

© 2018

ARTHUR TURFA

ARTHUR TURFA has lived in the Midlands of South Carolina for 13 years. His poetry reflects more and more of his current surroundings, but also includes places and people from where he has lied and traveled. His latest book, Saluda Reflections, was released by Finishing Line Press in July 2018. His previous books are Gemini, Broad River Books earlier in 2018, Accents , Amazon KDP, and Places and Times, eLectio Publishing, 2015.