INVITATION TO LIMBERLOST CABIN
~In memory of Gene Stratton-Porter
Smell the mustiness of books,
their brittle, coffee-stained pages.
Curl up on a settee to hear
the crackle of fire, the warmth
of Gene’s words. See the blue heron’s
marble glare, and the golden eagle’s
regal stature and talons. Look
at the porcelain doll holding memories
of Jeannette. Come examine the moths
trapped under glass–touch their tales
and disintegrating beauty. Visit
the kitchen where Gene wore a canvas
apron to dip photographs in the flash pan
of a turkey platter. Savor the story
of Gene hooting like a screech owl
and the bird gliding to the candle.
Taste oyster stew and table laughter
as Major, perched on a chair, clenched
an oyster in his claw. As you leave,
listen to the creaking wood floor.
Take with you the desire to read
Gene’s books and the inspiration
to write a story, like a cabin
with many windows.
Collaborative Poem from Participants in Shari Wagner’s November 13 2019 Workshop for Kids “At Limberlost Cabin”
Friends of the Limberlost 