The skeletal beginnings and the nagging thought that maybe I can’t do it this time are soon engulfed in colour. I resist the temptation to fill the void with only one – scarlet in this case. No, I look closely and discern the many hues, the tones, the textures, the dark, the light. I dissect. I delight in the clatter as I discard one pencil for another. I revel in the aroma of graphite, pigment and wax. I rejoice in the rasp of wood on blade as I sharpen yet another to a pin-fine point.
I lose myself. I lose myself in the not-quite-smooth paper brushing against my hand. Cold pressed, hot pressed, Daler Rowney, Strathmore, Arches, Winsor & Newton – a magical mantra that is music to my ears. I lose myself in the creation of something where nothing once reigned.
I infuse paper
with the joy of rainbows – no
concerns can stop me
Tonight it’s the turn of the delectable and highly talented Bjorn to host the bar over at dVerse. I know that it’s usually Monday when we are invited to write a haibun, but I thought I’d mix it up a bit and share one with you this evening instead.
My other creative passion, relatively recently reignited, is art. Much like when I’m writing, I lose myself in the process, but in a very different way. I hope I’ve managed to impart that in my haibun!
Open Link Night is great fun, as are all the nights when the dVerse team open the doors and usher us in through the hallowed portals. Do come along, even if it’s just to read an enjoy. Or… why not take part yourself? I guarantee a warm welcome!
Freya Writes... 
I love the can… though the one I have seen had been green.. not one we have here, but that golden syrup is a classic I have seen when travelling.. I think haibun can be any day… 🙂
Thank you, Bjorn. Yes, you see the golden syrup can more often here as well.
Hi Freya, I love the concept of infusing paper with a rainbow. I helped out an art workshop at the local library this afternoon and it was such a great experience watching children doing just that!
That sounds like so much fun! Thank you for reading and commenting 😊
This is a stirring tribute to passion for art; Odd how one life time does not provide the room to fully explore one’s many talents & interests. I used to sketch a lot , but now my poetry & photography & movies (watching, screening, reviewing & leading discussions) uses up my days. I really dig the sensual passion though in this piece.
Thank you so much, Glenn. I know what you mean – I do wonder how I’m ever going to fit it all in. You sound like you’re cramming a huge amount into your days!
I love this, especially the idea that art is empowering. A wonderful write.
Thank you so much! It does give me strength, when I’m at my lowest. And when I’m at my bed too!
I don’t know what to say. Your haibun just walked right through me and left such feelings…it’s like you invited us into your creative process. Very special. Thank you.
Thank you so much! You’re very welcome 🙂
Love, love, love this haibun Freya 😀 such a delightful thought to infuse paper with the joy of rainbows! Beautifully penned.
Lots of love,
Sanaa
Oh, Freya, my art muse has been harassing me something fierce lately–reading poetry like this, enjoying all the color around me–and you have made it even worse by referencing Winsor and Newton, Strathmore etc. oh dear, I must succumb if I can only find more time. And there’s the rub. You temptress, you!
Lol! Give in, give in to your muse!
I wish I can indulge in my art muse ~ So I admire you in working up that art, infusing it with textures and color ~ And the output is lovely Freya ~
Thank you so much, Grace 🙂
All my art supplies are packed – your poem made me miss them so. A finely textured write to accompany an intimate and lovely practice. Very well done.
I’m sorry your supplies are packed away – how frustrating! Thank you for your lovely comment 🙂
You and fellow dVerse poets have helped me appreciate the haibun! I especially enjoyed this one (I’m a weaver), thank you!
I’m glad you enjoy the form – I haven’t written any for a while. I know a little of weaving – but more of spinning, from my mum, who has two spinning wheels and many fleeces!
I have never in my life written a Haibun. I had to Google it. I’m that new to poetry so forgive me. Reading yours though has given me an itch to grab all my art supplies and just create something. Unfortunately, they are all packed and ready to be moved. They’ll have to wait. But in the meantime, I will happily dwell into the art of words 🙂
Forgiveness isn’t necessary – we are all learning every day! I’m sorry your creative arty itch can’t be scratched quite yet! Hopefully you’ll be able to access your supplies soon 😊
Feel free to come join us. Haibun Monday is every other Monday. the last before we break for summer will be not this coming quadrille Monday but the next. If you have any doubts, you can always read the submitted haibun for an idea of how to write. The tricky part is to end it with a haiku – not a 5-7-5 or micropoem, but a classic haiku.
I meant this to be under your name. Feel free to come join us. Haibun Monday is every other Monday. the last before we break for summer will be not this coming quadrille Monday but the next. If you have any doubts, you can always read the submitted haibun for an idea of how to write. The tricky part is to end it with a haiku – not a 5-7-5 or micropoem, but a classic haiku.
Thank you 🙂 I shall try and join in as often as I can.
Perfect description of the creative process.
Thank you, Misky.
wonderful habit — with the spark of a true artist in words and in the newness on the page!
haibun…..my computer automatically “corrects” to “habit” — sigh
Autocorrect is a pain! I was able to read between the technological interference 🙂
Thank you!
Ah to draw paint and write – what wonders are cast by our fingers. Treacle brought back memories to me of my mothers’s baking. She would make toffee and also Parkin, Parkin which I haven’t thought of for ages so googled and here it is: http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1940684/parkin
Anna :o]
Ah yes, I haven’t thought about Parkin for ages either! A Bonfire Night treat! Thank you for the memory!
oh my! You have some talent! A lovely haibun, and a fantastic bit of art!
Thank you very much, Bryan, I really appreciate your kind words 🙂
I just stared at the poor old lion with the bees buzzing above him. Just as I remember it as a child. I haven’t seen one of those for years! Isn’t it the story from Simon in the Bible and the poor, misunderstood Delilah? Loved the infusion – in my case of inspiration! Thanks for many reminders! Well written!
You’re very welcome. Yes, it’s a biblical story – Abram Lyle was deeply religious, so I understand. I’m so glad you enjoyed the infusion!
Art/ I always envied those who could do it. Alas I am as artistic as a car but then again, my art is my cooking and poetry. Love this take on gotta do art.
We all crate in different ways, don’t we? I’m glad you enjoyed it. 🙂