NaPoWriMo Day 11: Today, I challenge you to write a poem in which you closely describe an object or place, and then end with a much more abstract line that doesn’t seemingly have anything to do with that object or place, but which, of course, really does. I think of the “surprise” ending to this James Wright Poem as a model for the effect I’m hoping you’ll achieve. An abstract, philosophical kind of statement closing out a poem that is otherwise intensely focused on physical, sensory details. Happy writing!

The tree protects the yard
It’s evergreen umbrella, a communal treat
Underneath the roots run deep
Pushing up the patio concrete
The leaves on the drooping branches in the wind twirl
Its expansive shade guards the grass
And for the birds provides a retreat
Along with a winter trunk for squirrels
The fire is on the inside behind the glass.

~Just L (April 11, 2016)