Sassafrass Broom by Cathlyn CartierWith a sassafrass broom
you have swept through my heart
leaving it barren and dry. 12/04/2003 Author's Note: Inspired by my pastor's analogy of his grandmother's farm, where all of the fields were lush and green, and the yard was only dry, barren dirt. Every time a blade of grass dared to intrude, she would sweep the yard with a broom made of sassafrass branches.
WOW, The author's note is longer than the entire poem!
Posted on 12/04/2003 Copyright © 2025 Cathlyn Cartier
Member Comments on this Poem |
Posted by Lori Johnson on 12/04/03 at 08:43 PM While I admit I enjoyed the explanation, I do think it takes away from the poem a bit. I rather liked the uncertainty. At any rate, wonderfully put together. Makes me recall the smell of fresh sassafrass & I haven't in soooo long. Thanks for that. :) |
Posted by Maureen Glaude on 12/05/03 at 02:25 PM wonderful use of a concrete item for the feeling. I think it's a senryu, dealing with human emotions. Fine poem, I like it very much. |
Posted by Quentin S Clingerman on 12/06/03 at 07:36 PM Short but powerful. Strong symbolism! |
Posted by Mara Meade on 12/15/03 at 11:27 PM Wow! The layers of this are amazing! To me, your author's note enhances it, but then again, I'm familiar (being from Arkansas) with sassafrass brooms and all of their uses. This is an organic (though man-made) rejection of an organic issue, to me... absolutely fascinating to ponder. |
Posted by Glenn Currier on 01/08/04 at 04:43 AM What piercing instruments, this poem and broom! This is so evocative and the imagery sweeps into the soul. |
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