Before and After

Before and After

A Poem by Chris Shaw
"

(all has now been restored and Buddha is looking serene once again, despite the rain)

"
Buddha is oblivious to
the cascade of leaf fall from the birch
stirred by November rustles

leaves weep in showers of ochre tumble
non stop as they settle on
rain puddled garden table top

seated in lotus position
he is perfectly peaceful
serene and calm amid summer lost

eyes closed in meditation
unaware of his cooler surroundings
or incoming danger

from a curious feline
whose playful claws and paws are out
with an accurately aimed clout

minutes before all was harmony
and balance
it’s not any more

© 2025 Chris Shaw


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Reviews

I loved this. It was a scene played out I'm familiar with. I once had a few cats but I've never been very good at keeping them out of traffic. Cats are nocturnal hunters and roamers, great pets with loads of interest. Poor Buddha getting attacked...that feline nature.

Posted 1 Month Ago


Chris Shaw

1 Month Ago

Thanks Fabian. The cat is now safely back indoors and Buddha has been restored to his peaceful posit.. read more
Fabian G. Franklin

1 Month Ago

Siddhartha Gautama was famous for reposing, and a plump belly. ;)
To me the rain is inspirational and soul soothing. Love the poem

Posted 1 Month Ago


Chris Shaw

1 Month Ago

Thank you Dale. I quite like rain too. The sound I of it can be comforting. Pleased you enjoyed your.. read more
Gee

1 Month Ago

RAIN, RAIN, come trudge around a construction site for 10 hours :))

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451 Views
22 Reviews
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Added on November 13, 2025
Last Updated on November 13, 2025

Author

Chris Shaw
Chris Shaw

Berkshire, United Kingdom



About
Albert, my paternal grandfather introduced me to Tennyson when I was nine. I have loved poetry ever since but did not attempt writing a single piece until I was 40. It's never too late to try somethin.. more..