THE WEB

fear, escape, comfort; ethereal

At first, I am vacuous, timorous, still

in the seam of a bewitching web

of intricate fabric

until, silky threads enfold me

shroud me with tranquility, repose

shelter me from the cruel abyss

Streaks of late afternoon sun

unsettle my eyes

murky view of essence

At dusk I ignite

my legs creep, cautious steps

not to crack a thread

stretch the nest, infinite particles

of flawless patterns

Action breeds worth

as I explore my web of intoxication

sure that I am safe

in time, I will emerge from this sanctuary

into the dark abyss, from whence I came

Author's Note

emotions, fear, tranquility

Reviews

[Patricia Wedel]

Your mind needs a rest where butterflies nest
and spiders dance on silky lines of tenderness...
Tomorrow is waiting on the cusp of dreams.
gently, Pat

[Betty Hermelee]

Thanks for your kind comment, sweet!

[Lale]

Aaah Betty! what a complex poem indeed. I like the transitional mood you crafted, emerging from fear to ethereal tranquility.. then going back to confusion and fear of the "the dark abyss, from whence I came"
I liked the last stanza, so scary but realistic as much. Well done, Betty. The nicest poem I've read so far today.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you so much Lale, much appreciated,
Fondly, Betty

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Okay...I am so enthralled with this poem. This is how it speaks to me. I think of our webs being our isolation...we tread carefully, alone, trying to stay safe from the abyss of the virus.
But it is treacherous because staying alone can produce adverse effects as well...the loneliness can be overwhelming and cause more harm than the virus.
Poor spiders can't win...
wonderful allegory presented here....you are so good, Betty.
j.

[Betty Hermelee]

That was my intent, glad I was able to pull it off!!
Most appreciative Jacob.

[barleygirl]

I've been away too much in recent months, so I may be remembering wrongly, but this seems like a big step toward the direction of ABSTRACT for you!?!?! I love it! I remember reading you as being pretty literal, so that's why I'm feeling pleasantly surprised. I don't enjoy abstract where I feel completely without direction . . . this poem has a definite storyline & that's why it appeals to me. This reminds me of how, after interacting with "the world", my thoughts bounce like a pinball but slowly settle into my peaceful surroundings of wilderness solitude, as I get more & more distracted by whatever new sprout or tomato or cucumber I might be examining as I putter in the garden. I am so centered by being outdoors & by quiet in my surroundings. It's no wonder most people are bouncing off the walls on lockdown, after becoming conditioned to a lifetime of hyper-stimulation & distraction & limitless options. Your poem also shows how some people have trouble meditating becuz they can't quiet their minds . . . this poem is the bouncing thought trajectory (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[Betty Hermelee]

Wow Margie! I'm, trying to be more abstract in my thinking...woohoo!!! Thank mucho, Betty