Twelve Hokku On A Canadian Theme

(1)

How strangely they float, Pale gold and ivory cups, On wilderness lakes.

(2)

The loon’s weird laughter Holds Indian deviltry, Long, long forgotten.

(3)

Indian cradle Swung from bough, rocked by Four Winds: Christ lay in manger.

(4)

Silver-haired Marquise! You were transplanted, one Spring, Into wild New France.

(5)

The sugar maples ... Benevolent goddesses Who offer honey.

(6)

Snow-shoes: like strong wings Bound on the feet of victors Conquering snow-fields.

(7)

On city pavements Two muffled, sombre nuns pace, Behind laughing girls.

(8)

You set narcissus Amidst your silver birches By Northern lakeside.

(9)

Five o’clock! You pause ... Handle frail, old cups, pour tea, And become grande dame.

(10)

When Loneliness stalked ... Black panther through gold wheat-fields ... You used Love’s arrows.

(11)

Puissant woman!... Sheltering tiny things like English primroses!

(12)

Fast the new trails lead From wilderness to city! Years pass ... Canada!