We had a spectacular storm early on Tuesday evening. It took place after dinner, blowing in on winds from the west. I ran outside with my phone and small camera to take photos of the clouds lit with the sun from behind. A gentleman, who is a friend of a friend, told me in a social media comment that I couldn’t keep the clouds – that they were from the Dakotas. Still, I considered them a gift. The photos and comment inspired the following poem.
Keeping Clouds
You blew in from the West, From the Dakotas, I'm told. Not a gift, but carrying a story of old. On the wings of the winds From Fargo through Mankato to Winona, Then, here. You arrive in my Wisconsin backyard, without stirring fear. Colors so bright, for a cloud, it seems rare. Causing me to grab my camera, And, follow you anywhere. To the East, North, South, and West, I went taking photos along the way to just pick the best. My Dakota Clouds will be kept for future days of gray, for me to bring out when I need some color sent my way. © Draft, Carol Labuzzetta, 2021
You never know where inspiration will come from. Although much of my work is inspired by nature, the inspiration for this piece came from a written reaction to my storm photos from last Tuesday night.
Today is Poetry Friday. Our round up host this week is the wonderfully artist Michelle Kogan. Please stop by her page for some wonderful poems and artwork! Thank you Michelle!
The Apples in My Orchard 
Gorgeous pics and poem Carol! I love your line,
“On the wings of the winds ,” and the orange and ochres in the clouds. And what an intriguing comment you were offered, you can’t keep the clouds, thanks!
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Carol, I love that you shared so many photos. The title and these lines stick with me:
“for / future days of gray, for me to bring out”
Yes, indeed. Beautiful memories that we can keep even though we can’t keep the clouds passing through from Dakotas.
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So true! You can’t keep the clouds, and yet, in a way, you can. Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com
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I’ve never seen such colorful clouds, ever! So beautiful and that they are from the Dakotas adds mystery. I sensed much gratitude in your poem.
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Love the response to that comment, Carol, belonging to the Dakotas, but luckily for us you did ‘keep’ them in your poem & your pictures! Wonderful!
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Thanks so much! I am behind on comments and just saw this now! I apologize for the late reply. I’m glad you liked the poem. I’m glad I kept the clouds, too!
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Carol, these photos are stunning, The ending of your poem is one that resonates with me. How often we write and remind ourselves that our thoughts can chase the grayness away.
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Thanks, Carol. I always appreciate your insight!
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