by Timothy Tarkelly

Fervent clay
Confounded frame, statuary
Glimmering child’s eye
Aflame and young
Crying to Christ’s star
For a blanket of cool air
Gentle fingers to soothe
The face of foundation
Original homes of enrobed men
Brush the mountain pines
Direct the rivers
Bring life into all hills
Quiet prayers, large beads
Settle notions of muscle
Grit teeth, bless
The children
Tie colts in the churchyard
Ride for peace
Back to Jerusalem

Timothy Tarkelly’s work has appeared in Jupiter Review, Paddler Press, Rhodora Magazine, and others. He has published several poetry collections, including Gently in Manner, Strongly in Deed: Poems on Eisenhower (Spartan Press) and On Slip Rigs and Spiritual Growth (OAC Books). His most recent collection is a collaboration with Ukrainian painter Elena Samarsky, entitled All Other Forms of Expression (OAC Books). When he’s not writing, he teaches in Southeast Kansas.