Sugar-sweet memories are those that linger without scorn.
They erase the sorrow of dark thoughts on a foggy morn.
They are those memories that we all constantly pursue
but are often hidden in plumes of smoke that ensue,
and so remain within those hidden secrets that we keep,
that cut us with thorns bursting forth with visions bleak;
visions, which are carried in streams of thought that dwell
in the icy misfortunes of winter’s cold, unholy spell.
We fear the din of thunder that makes us tremble within
and the flashing lightning that glows on a cross of tin,
and we weary old men sob in those hours not so sweet,
which keep us awake in the dark hours of twilight sleep.
James G. Piatt, an octogenarian, retired professor, poet and novelist, lives in Santa Ynez, California, with his wife Sandy, and an Aussie dog named Scout. He writes poetry because it keeps him alive. He has published five collections of poetry, The Silent Pond, Ancient Rhythms, LIGHT, Solace Between the Lines, and Serenity. He was nominated twice for the Best of Net award, and four times for a Pushcart award. He earned his doctorate from BYU, and his BS and MA from California State Polytechnic University, SLO.