The Versesmith

A N once  form is a poem created by an individual poet, usually for one-time use.  Depending on the poet's preference, it may be based on a pre-existing form, but will have its own structure.   So, basically, a nonce is a form for one-time use.  I wrote n ine stanzas, two rhyming lines each, with n ine syllables in each line, so a lot of N s. N ativity is my name for this diptych (an artwork in two connected parts), a term from Greek meaning " pair of writing tablets ."  I found it in the Goodwill Outlet bins, and it's one of my favorite pieces.  The artist is  Marlinde von Ruhs , which is rather incredible to find!  The two parts are hinged, trimmed in gold braid, with the backs covered in turquoise felt with beading.  It's the most incredible nativity I've ever seen! Marlinde often mounted her smaller works in felt or velvet, brocade, and gold braiding.  According to some sources she didn't want them to be just paintings in a f...

 N – Naga-Uta Naga-uta is Japanese for “long song.” As a poem, the lines alternate the syllable count of 5-7, ending with a last 7 syllable line.  It is also called a choka. Hoping to See a Rainbow  I awake early,  the sun still hidden by trees. A pink horizon  through the bare winter branches. Does it foretell rain, that pink sky in the morning? I slip on my robe. Purple.  I have always thought it made me look fat.  Like a purple polar bear. The cats are hungry,  whining at the bedroom door. Once fed, they're asleep again.  My dog waits for me to dress, go outside.    The sun higher, clouds scarlet. I feel the first drop,  raise my eyes into the sky hoping to see a rainbow.  ©2024 Lisa Smith Nelson. All Rights Reserved