How We Play Opposites
With a first look outside at a grey morning,
we betray our attitudes
toward contrasts and opposites: those
in the majority probably on the side of light.
I have learned from nocturnal predators
something of the utility of darkness—
night makes it secure for them
to hunt without themselves being hunted.
Have come to understand
the play of opposites against
each other—in the ER coin-toss of triage,
at recess choosing sides.
If you see my eyes closed, Sundays, don’t
fault the dazzle of stained-glass,
or a brilliant illumination of the text—
I’ve conceded holy darkness equal time.
Russell Rowland writes from New Hampshire. Recent work appears in Red Eft Review, Wilderness House, Bookends Review, and The Windhover. His latest poetry book, Magnificat, is available from Encircle Publications. He is a trail maintainer for the Lakes Region Conservation Trust.
Amethyst Review 