Chapbook Update 18: Elizabeth S. Wolf
This is from the chapbook Time to Heal/ Transitions, written by James Stevahn. Mr. Stevahn resides in Arizona. The title poem is a collection of linked haibun. This form consists of a short bit of prose poetry, followed by a haiku. It can be a very powerful way to communicate in a tight space. Here are selections from that poem.
A Time to Heal
Bi-polar disorder (Noun) A psychiatric disorder marked by alternating episodes of mania and depression. That is a fact. Here is my slice of that storm.
A dark storm rolls in
Then moves on; the sun comes out
The dark storm returns.
This is a cycle that happens daily. Sometimes multiple times a day. It is a permanent part of my life.
A volcano sounds
anger, rage, destruction, BOOM
rage spent, now dormant
This condition can be an emotional roller coaster. Sometimes smooth and slow; sometimes fast and rough. The only option is to hang on to the end. I use the example of storms a lot in these poems because any storm has the potential for total chaos and destruction or being a nurturing, watering, washing. So many factors can change the course and intensity of a storm. It can be very unpredictable.
Soar high, spiral down
no reason, season, pleasing
no understanding
Note: At the end of 2 ½ pages Mr. Stevahn wrote: I hope this story has affected you in some way. It’s the truth. It is hard to open up sometimes, but I have and this is for you.