THINK of a favorite place.
What time of year is it? What is the weather? What time of day?
Why did you choose this special spot? Have you been there often?
Did you recall it because of what you see, or because of what you feel there?
How does this place shape your experience?
Where is it lodged in your memory?
* * *
WHAT REMAINS of our conversation?
Can I repeat it?
Family and friends at first;
the river; traveling to Maine;
the viruses, real and metaphorical, stalking our democracy;
at last: apples, art, and architecture.
What has already changed? What will be different in a week?
How much have I forgotten?
How was our conversation shaped by warm air, rumbling trucks, cup of tea;
nudging dog, floating monarch initially mistaken for a leaf;
two women who stopped to chat as they were passing?
What was left unsaid? What cannot be said?
What do I retain of your lively mind, your generous smile, and the love we share?
Which do I enjoy more–the paintings or the writing that accompanies these pieces? An unanswered question.
The segment “what remains of our conversation” was poignant and made me feel like I was with the two of you.
Thank you, Elena. What we retain from our experience is of great interest to me. I’m glad that came across, and I appreciate the kind words.
I especially like “Sun over Mountains” and “Along the River.”
Thank you, Henry. I appreciate it.
Striking paintings and beautiful writings. I particularly loved “What remains of our conversation.” It describes so eloquently the feelings and views of what surrounds you as you converse.
Thank you, Jan. so glad that they resonated with you. I always value your feedback.
If I didn’t have a favorite place that easily comes to mind, it would be “Along the River”. This place speaks volumes to me; it feels like home.
Many thanks–that is a great compliment. So glad you like it!