Hunters
The magic, myth, and mystery are fine.
A hunter stays in tune with what is near.
The scented space that holds a quiet pine
can turn the slightest breeze to tempt a bear.
Our heightened senses embrace the soul.
The mind is freed by nature’s tenderness.
As hunters, we enact, but do not control
the strength of will that determines success.
To snare a rabbit, or track and spot the buck
in sheltered apple, oak, or stream they frequent
is knowledge gained from them, not ego or luck.
The worthiness is patience mixed with scent.
Our palate tastes, our ears compare. We feel
the birthing heart, when earth is made real.
…..
This poem is from the book 1803: The Wintering (First Honorable Mention, 2024 Donna Wolf-Palacio Poetry Prize) by Mark B. Hamilton (Finishing Line Press) and can be found at https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/1803-the-wintering-by-mark-b-hamilton/
Mark B. Hamilton has worked as a Shipwright, Carpenter, Professor of English, Graduate Faculty Member, Caseworker for children and youth services, and Editor of environmental magazines. His publications include 3 poetry volumes, 3 poetry chapbooks, and 120 individual poems, plus researched essays, with inclusion into the Folk Life Archives, US Library of Congress. 1803: The Wintering was awarded First Honorable Mention for the 2024 Donna Wolf-Palacio Poetry Prize.
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