Posted by Erich Shelton on Monday, October 5, 2009
Under: Poetry
The weathervane was rusting and blowing in the wind, Like the whirling dervish, dancing by the stream. I wondered of her mystic past; Was it bitter or sweet? I asked her if she played a tune, or only swung for me.
In a trance she called me, round and round we’d spin; Strolling through my fantasy, playing in my tent. Could it be she was never still? Did she ever rest? Would she continue reeling around with vigorous energy?
The winds slipped quickly past her; above her head were clouds; Beneath the shattered shingles, underneath my brow. The onion dome was peeled away. The paint fell from the edge. The wire and lines spoke of time never to be relived.
Yellow speckled mortar, against a seafoam green; Broken panes of ancient glass, wanting to be cleaned. I was curious of her maker; Had he see her ruin? Did he know her life of joy or notice her graceful turns?
Did he know her jitter-bug or see her Highland fling, Or see her subtle steps in the dance of fertility? Rumba, samba, disco – Flamenco, or Irish jig. Perhaps I’ll join in the tea dance and let her carry me.
I currently teach graphic design and illustration at the University of Southern Indiana. I really love teaching and the challenges which this provides me. It not only keeps me young, but forces me to be that ongoing learner; sometimes referred to as a life-long learner. This goal of continuing to learn as finally brought me back to the role as a student as well. Some years ago I started and MFA, but due to an automobile accident was unable to complete it.
I have just been accepted as a student at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and will finally be able to work on the MFA. The great thing is I can continue working at USI and will visit the AAU in the summer. The rest of the time I am able to take my courses online.
Like technology and life, it is constantly changing and evolving. What a joy to be part of it all!