Grapes

Plucked from Gaia’s umbilical vine

For a succulent feast

Or pressed into wine.

<>

A perfect union of Heaven and Earth,

Sustaining new life

And to death giving birth.

<>

Grapes are Nature’s jellybeans,

Each one sweet or sour.

Different ends from ripening means.

<>

Dionysian delight

Revels in the night

Then a healthy snack

As dawn doth crack.

A horizon born anew

Amidst the morning dew

Gives us cause to love—

That which is below

As that which is above.

<>

Vines take root

In the terrestrial dark

To bring forth fruit

Like a celestial spark.

Hark! Hark!

Comfort achieved

By the silenced bark

Of a hunger relieved.

***** * *****

Commentary:

My youngest daughter and I enjoy many fruits. Recently we took to grapes. Beyond the simple pleasure of slaking my thirst and hunger (grapes are both hydrating and filling), I found additional comfort in conversing with her about the many varieties I brought home; how each grape, like a jellybean, promises a new experience, as they do not all taste exactly the same, even when they weigh down the branches of the same vine.

As for the Dionysian delight that the cultivation of the mighty grape yields to us mere mortals, my daughter is still far too young to partake. However, it is a great comfort for me to know that having drawn inspiration from my dear child to eat healthier here and now, I am much more likely to be around in the future to share a glass of wine with her... when the time is ripe.

***** * *****

More Poetry from C. Rommial Butler: