Fortunes lie on the ocean floor
the glow of gold grows dim
under the weight of ancient waves
currency becomes spurious.
Mark my words, young lady—
forests will cover these cities one day.
You will live to see it
with your own two eyes.
Mile upon mile of broken pavement
plagued by wildflower, thistle and thorn
a parade of ruin, strewn out reckless—
Verdancy triumphant in every direction.
Then one day, after you’ve gone
the oceans will slowly recede
Inland dwellers will take leave to new islands
and find something hidden
in the brightness of day.
*Title taken from a line in the 36th canto of the William Scott Wilson translation of The Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
Advertisements
A superb poem Oglach, Ah, every story tells a picture, and here your words draw a startling picture.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks very much, Ivor.
LikeLike
A timeless piece on the passing of time and the results of men’s activities
LikeLiked by 2 people
Many thanks, Derrick.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Nature decides. Beautiful poem, and so very true.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Inese.
LikeLiked by 1 person
An exceptional piece of writing Oglach. Bravo.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks very much, Alan.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Real treasure is found in nature. Everything else is fools gold. I couldn’t agree more with your superb words. 🤗
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. The picture of the amusement park over taken by forest is from Pripyat, just outside Chernobyl. The people are gone. The forest came back. Thanks for reading, Rose.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You spell-weaver you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks a million, KC
LikeLiked by 1 person