The Secret Grove

a broad green sweep of valley
dark woodlands gathered there
by the rivers curve
nestled far below

above the hills a kestrel calls
sound stretched across still air
the blue grey hills melt away
in a distant milky mist

high above the world i sit
in a place away from care
surrounded by a birch wood
close by a hidden pool

this sun warmed granite ledge
above a grassy stair
lodges like an eagle’s nest
amongst the ancient trees

the oak trees lean together
to form a secret gate
where the hawthorns grow
beside the lofty fir

I lean against the apple tree
and watch the day grow late
no sound but birds and waterfall,
the sighing of the trees

the sun dips down behind the hills
i sit in peace and wait
to see the diamond stars come out
across the web of night

Night Music

at night, by the waterfall
amid the music of water,
I heard the distant sound of a harp
and a nightingale sweetly singing.
i felt my spirit lift

all was miraculous harmony
magical symphony,
rare gift
beneath the turning stars

the earth under my feet
soft with falling leaves
and the dark smell of loam
silently sounded a deep bass note
to make the concerto complete