From the Sidelines

Do you know how it feels
to stand alone in a forest
in the caesura
of a gathering storm?

With a graceful pirouette
the north wind about-faces
and just as quickly
a sou’ wester replaces
the breathy, dry kisses
of long afternoons in the sun.
Drawing breath from your lungs
and heat from your soles,
lowercase twisters
scatter leaves with abandon.
There’s a pause,

it is electric,
then thunder above.
A first splash, the herald,
caresses your skin
and whispers of days
when you sucked the air in
and laughed until laughter ran dry;
when you danced and you sang
and timeless, you lay
entwined ‘neath an indigo sky.

In that place, alone,
your lenses will fail
and your notebook fall
by the by.
Your shutter can’t capture
the depths of magenta;
your pen,
the dreaming Magpie.

It’s a moment,
just a moment,
before the storm breaks
and the old song
resumes its same rhyme.

Do you feel it?
Can you grab it?
A resolution, of sorts:
to wring from
each minute
a lifetime.

by Ryan Stone

2015/01/img_1461.jpg


Comments

215 responses to “From the Sidelines”

  1. Beautifully written, Ryan. I am in awe, feeling every word. I can grab all the senses, and I just don’t have to try. Everything just comes so easy. Amazing picture.

    Liked by 11 people

    1. Thank you so much, Katherine 🙂

      Liked by 6 people

  2. You’re an incredible writer!

    Liked by 14 people

  3. Whoa! What a lovely comment! Thank you, Belinda – you just put a huge smile on my face 🙂

    Liked by 9 people

  4. this photo! the writing! woah, you are so talented! keep up the great work!

    Liked by 10 people

    1. Thank you for your visit and for taking the time to leave some kindness – truly appreciated 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

  5. Manan Unleashed Avatar
    Manan Unleashed

    “Drawing breath from your lungs
    and heat from your soles”

    “When you sucked the air in
    and laughed until laughter ran dry”
    Had heard of tears and blood running dry. You painted magic with this. Drying my mouth to the hilt. I need air, Ryan. 🙂
    Can it get better than this? No Sir!

    Liked by 7 people

    1. Haha, how much I look forward to hearing your feedback, Manan. Thank you as always for brightening my world 🙂

      Liked by 4 people

      1. Manan Unleashed Avatar
        Manan Unleashed

        That is so sweet of you! I love feedback-ing you :):)

        Liked by 3 people

  6. Loved the picture! Did you take it??

    Liked by 8 people

    1. Thank you 🙂 Yes-it’s the trail I run with my dog. My slice of paradise and the place 99% of my writing begins.

      Liked by 8 people

      1. Ya can’t blame you for being so creative if you go to a place like that!! 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

      2. I feel lucky every time I set foot amongst those trees 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

      3. 🙂 I get this feel of tranquillity just by looking at it! Its indeed a paradise.:) Lucky you! 🙂

        Liked by 3 people

  7. Wow! Ryan this is beautiful! And the photo is amazing I love the spot, the fog the colors everything I could use it in one of my digital art. Do you run in this magical spot? 😉

    Liked by 7 people

    1. What a lovely comment, Carolina. Thank you! Yes, i run this trail most days. It’s best in the morning, being a rainforest it takes ages for the fog to lift. Photos never do it justice. You’re most welcome to use the photo however you like 🙂

      Liked by 4 people

      1. Thank you! How beautiful truly a magical place to go run no wonder you write beautifully! Places like this give the purest energy! I love the photo! I will use it sometimes and of course you will be credited! 😉

        Liked by 5 people

      2. Thank you, you’re very thoughtful. No need to credit it if it complicates things – yours to use in friendship 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

      3. Thank you Ryan you’re awesome!

        Liked by 1 person

      4. As is your friendship 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  8. wow. so many amazing lines. There is a fierceness in this poem–a hunger for all life has to offer. You are back in force after your break!

    Liked by 7 people

    1. Lovely comments, thank you Mel. Fierceness is perfect – life is for living!

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Yes it is! 🙂 you’re welcome

        Liked by 1 person

  9. A. M. Yeager Avatar
    A. M. Yeager

    This is beautiful, Ryan, and that photo is absolutely breathtaking. Very well done! This probably has become one of my most favorites of yours!

    Liked by 9 people

    1. Thank you so much, Al. I actually wrote it for M a little while ago. Glad you like it 🙂

      Liked by 4 people

      1. A. M. Yeager Avatar
        A. M. Yeager

        M? ;]

        Liked by 4 people

      2. Well, inspired by a comment he made in an email. So, kinda for him!

        Liked by 3 people

      3. A. M. Yeager Avatar
        A. M. Yeager

        Haha! I hope he liked it! If not, I’m gonna have some words for him. ;]

        Liked by 4 people

  10. Reblogged this on Busy Mind Thinking and commented:
    This piece embraced a storm. Therefore, I couldn’t resist a re-blog.

    Liked by 10 people

    1. Thank you once again, dear friend. Your kindness is truly appreciated 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

      1. I took a chance re-blogging without permission, thanks for reassurance it was okay to do so. Great piece as always, and I cannot resist a storm. You’re welcome, my friend. 🙂

        Liked by 4 people

      2. I hereby formally and under no duress assert and affirm that the abovementioned poet, namely Belinda of busymindthinking, may from this day forward reblog from my site, namely daysofstone, at whim with or without seeking prior permission to do so. Signed and dated by my hand this 29th day of March in the year of our Lord 2016.

        😉

        Liked by 4 people

      3. AWMP = almost wet my pants! Why thank you Kind Sir. Omgosh I can barely catch my breath! Bahaha!

        Liked by 1 person

  11. mandibelle16 Avatar
    mandibelle16

    Love this. Great rhythm and flow. Wonderful descriptions and the images your words create are beautiful. Like the lines: “to wring from each minute a lifetime” I believe that is always what we crave what we want. I wish we could always do it!

    Liked by 8 people

    1. So true, Mandi! Thank you for being so thoughtful 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  12. WOW WOW WOW! Of course I liked every line, but when I can, I choose a fave bit–“lowercase twisters” is Brilliant!!

    Liked by 7 people

    1. Heya! I love hearing what parts stand out – thank you, Azul 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Most welcome–sometimes it’s impossible to choose a fave, as you have a gift for making every word count–and shine 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

  13. moonskittles Avatar
    moonskittles

    Yes!! A magnificent resolution! To take it all in, and Carpe Diem! May both your and her wishes come true everyday Mr. Stone! 🙂

    Liked by 7 people

    1. And you as well, my friend. Thank you 😀

      Liked by 4 people

  14. Ryan, wow man, fantastic writing as usual. We should collaborate, if you’d ever want to, I would be honored.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. I’m flattered, mate. That’d be very cool – I’m a big fan of the collaborations I’ve read on your site. I have to warn you, though – I don’t think I’m particularly easy to write with. My writing comes in dribs and drabs between work, raising my boys, inspiration fluxes…could be painful for you!

      Liked by 3 people

      1. you should ask my previous collaborators how tedious it is to work with me ha. Time zone issues, work issues (damn jobs) always get in the way of fantasy life.

        I have an idea. I will email you

        Liked by 2 people

      2. Haha-we’ll be a perfect fit. Please do – daysofstone@bigpond.com

        Liked by 1 person

  15. Ryan, “From the Sidelines” is stunning. Very impressive, the writing is beautiful, not only for beauty’s sake, but also for insightfulness, recognizing the essence that moments are able to capture. It’s really wonderful as the narrator asks the reader, “Do you know how it feels” and then proceeds to take the reader on an amazing visual and emotional journey where each minute holds a lifetime of events. Truly outstanding my friend, you have such a marvelous talent. Please enjoy the rest of the weekend, always wishing you well. ~ Mia

    Liked by 8 people

    1. Dear Mia, your feedback is thoughtful as ever. I can’t tell you how good it makes me feel to know that such a talented writer is willing to invest the time to read and study my writing and offer such considered and insightful responses. Your friendship and support means the world and I thank you kindly.
      My weekend was fantastic, thank you. I hope yours was also. Take care and thank you once more 🙂

      Liked by 5 people

      1. Ryan, you are so welcome. It’s a pleasure to read work of this caliber, I’m thrilled to be able to enjoy your beautiful offerings, thank you. Please have a wonderful week. ~ Mia

        Liked by 1 person

  16. percolatingpoetry Avatar
    percolatingpoetry

    Your writing, like your photography, captures those little moments that are often missed by many of us. In both cases, time stands still and readers can place themselves in your shoes. All the subtle personal movements are perfectly balanced with what’s happening in your environment. As you resolve to capture the essence within the seconds, we are left running into the forest with you, beyond the building mist, and anticipate what is next. Great writing, my friend. It’s truly inspirational.

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Not half as inspirational as receiving feedback like that! Thank you, I’m humbled and incredibly grateful.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. percolatingpoetry Avatar
        percolatingpoetry

        You are kind, my friend, and most welcome.

        Liked by 1 person

  17. Such beautiful imagery with your writing Ryan. The rhythm is so melodic too. 🙂

    Liked by 8 people

    1. A lovely response thank you Judy 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  18. Ah, an Australian summer storm, in the ranges, maybe the Dandenong’s or perhaps the Otway’s, but whatever, a beautiful poem, and loved the unusual line, “your pen, the dreaming Magpie”….

    Liked by 7 people

    1. Thank you, Ivor. Yes, you’re spot on – the Dandenong Ranges are my backyard. Very lucky 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  19. Beautiful imagery. Perfection, my friend.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Truly appreciated, Eugenia. Thank you 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  20. This is beyond words. Beautiful piece Ryan!

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thank you so much! Such a nice comment to receive 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

  21. mandibelle16 Avatar
    mandibelle16

    Wow, this imagery is fantastic!! Incredibly vivid and like being right there. I won’t say more having analyzed a couple of your wonderful poetry pieces I’ll spare you a third. Hope u publish a poetry book someday. Just saying, but I’d buy it in hard/soft cover and I can’t say there’s many books I wouldn’t just buy on line these days. Hope all is well. Fall here nearly hope you’re doing good 🙂

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Hi, Amanda! What a lovely thing for you to say. I’ve actually been looking through my poems lately with a view to putting an ebook together. I’d love to have a small book of my own published. Thank you for the encouragement. Enjoy your Fall, I’ve finally swapped winter for spring but, if anything, it seems colder and wetter than it was! I hope that changes soon-I’m in desperate need of some sunshine. I really appreciate your kin comments, thank you 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

      1. mandibelle16 Avatar
        mandibelle16

        Sunless weather is no fun! For me I notice the lack of Vitamin D. Enjoy your spring. I hear summers are pretty hot hot there. My brothers visited a couple times. First time he went in Australian summer he said never again lol. It’s a hard change when that time of year in Canada is -30 degrees Celsius.
        And yes put together that poetry book!

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Haha, yes they can get very hot – weeks in the high 30’s – 40’s. I love them. I think I’d die in that kind of cold. Nights here have been getting down to 1 or 2 degrees and I struggle!

        Liked by 2 people

      3. mandibelle16 Avatar
        mandibelle16

        Haha that made me laugh. Guys here wear shorts when it gets to that temperature in spring lol. I aren’t the only one the first cold snap pretty much kills us all and we pray for 6 months of winter not 8!
        I’m the opposite, I wish O could stand that heat but unless it’s a dry heat like in Arizona I get heat sick. Takes a few days to get used to it! My brother did love it over there though.
        Thanks again 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

  22. Absolutely beautiful,

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thank you, Saliha 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  23. …..to wring from each minute a lifetime! ❤️❤️❤️

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Thank you, Vishakha 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  24. Nice photography and written.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thanks so much, Pratik

      Like

  25. ahh this is so wonderful, your words just paint such beautiful pictures. The picture is captivating as well. Amazing!

    Liked by 7 people

    1. You’re wonderful. Thank you 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Aww thank you for that sweet comment! And, you’re very welcome!

        Liked by 3 people

      2. Love your tag line too … too much coffee, too little sleep, a love of words. Definitely relatable!

        Liked by 2 people

      3. Haha, thanks! 🙂

        Liked by 1 person

  26. Wow! The words are so powerful 💗💗💗💗

    Liked by 6 people

  27. Beautiful words and picture

    Liked by 6 people

      1. You’re welcome 🙂

        Liked by 3 people

  28. Goodness! The setting, the imagery, the sounds, the intimacy with the reader.. beautiful work!

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Hi, Isha. Thank you so much for your lovely comments 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  29. Wow. Fantastic writing!

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Hi, Nicole. Thank you so much!

      Liked by 2 people

  30. waleed youssief 🇪🇬 Avatar
    waleed youssief 🇪🇬

    Great

    Liked by 4 people

  31. Miamacnimin Avatar
    Miamacnimin

    Yes well said..

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Thank you 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  32. This is so nice

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thanks so much 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  33. so important to seize each moment

    Liked by 5 people

  34. Ah, an Australian summer storm, in your backyard, the Dandenong’s, a beautiful poem, and I loved the unusual line, “your pen, the dreaming Magpie”….

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Thanks so much, Ivor

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Your welcome Ryan … let’s hope we get some rain soon

        Liked by 2 people

  35. pictures that make the heart peaceful

    Liked by 5 people

  36. Very beautifully written 🤩

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Thank you so much! Very kind of you 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

  37. love all your descriptive and imagery elements!! your flow is smooth and wave like. I’ve always found reading poetry helps me write better and just feel more, especially good poetry and this poem is beautiful.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thank you again, Amira. I really appreciate your kindness and thoughtful feedback

      Liked by 2 people

  38. Eswadia Avatar

    A reminder that nature, amidst all tumults, still has its beauty.
    Thanks for reminding me to never loose hope in humanity.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Thank you for such deep, thoughtful feedback. Truly appreciated 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  39. Wow 😮 this is beautiful, Ryan. Nice to met you and to see your beautiful work. I’m sold.

    Let me subscribe now. Continue ✍️

    Liked by 5 people

    1. Thank you so much for dropping by 🙂 And for you lovely comments, too!

      Liked by 2 people

      1. It’s my pleasure. 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

  40. This is so beautiful. I can actually feel myself in the middle of the forest and experience every feeling and emotion 💓💓💓💓

    Liked by 6 people

    1. What lovely feedback! Thank you, Anoushka – high praise 🙂

      Like

  41. Beautifully written

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment. Truly appreciate it 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thanks so much

      Liked by 1 person

  42. I love the way you write.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Very kind. Thank you 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      1. You are welcome

        Liked by 1 person

  43. JC my lil Universe Avatar
    JC my lil Universe

    Beautiful

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Thank you 🙂

      Like

  44. That…. was simply… It’s so beautiful!!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. So very thoughtful of you! Thank you so much-made my day 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  45. Ryan, this is the best poem I’ve read in ages. The writing style lends a Robert Burns credence to it. I absolutely love this. Awesome, awesome word descriptions!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi, Corrie. Thank you for such thoughtful and considerate feedback. Your comments have brightened my day. Lovely! Thank you for reading 🙂

      Like

  46. This is simply wonderful! The words match the picture perfectly, I can almost feel myself there.

    Liked by 6 people

    1. Hi, Samantha. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such lovely thoughts. Makes the writing worthwhile. I’m lucky enough to have a forest at my back door…makes for some lovely photos 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Too kind. Thank you 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  47. great photo and descriptive writing; what made me sit up and respect were two phrases: ‘the caesura of a storm’ and ‘lowercase twisters’ : that is original writing —

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Hey, John. Thanks so much for your feedback-truly appreciated 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  48. Beautiful shot

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Thank you. It’s a beautiful place 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

Leave a Reply