Redwood of the East

All along the Appalachians, the American chestnut stood. A towering tree as wide as a man is tall, with a canopy of blossoms like snow in springtime. From fences to tannin, from furniture to cabins, with a nut that was prized by wildlife and man, this forest wonder was valued by all. But like an unseen fire, a disease from afar would imperil this American treasure. From the North to the South the destruction was spread until a ghostly forest was all that was left.

whisper of a moon
fading from night’s empty sky . . .
thoughts of yesterday

It has been many years since the American chestnut reigned with only bleak reminders of this once great tree. But there are those who are hopeful that the day will come when the American chestnut will grace these mountains once again.

something in the air
riding on the winds of change . . .
a new beginning


— Dan Hardison


Photo by Dan Hardison
Blue Ridge Mountains, Western North Carolina


Haibun, Contemporary Haibun Online - April 2013, vol 9 no 1

Liminal Days

Haiku and image by Dan Hardison
Photo: Chattanooga, Tennessee


World Haiku Association, Mar 2013

The Cascading Stream

Haiku and image by Dan Hardison
Photo: Cookeville, Tennessee


Sketchbook - Jul/Aug 2011

Embraced

The symbolism of the circle can be traced through ancient history and all cultures, and is usually connected with nature and the concept of being inclusive or continuous. Our lives are reflected in nature's life cycle and the circle -- both physical and spiritual. The Celtic knot, often referred to as the mystic or endless knot, draws on this inspiration by having neither a beginning nor an end. Overall, it gives a sense of continuity, while its interlacing segments suggest being interconnected. The Celtic knot, like the circle, is all encompassing -- not bound but embraced.

children playing
in the warmth of springtime . . .
liminal days


— Dan Hardison


Image: Pastel rubbing from a carved wood block


Haibun, Contemporary Haibun Online - July 2012, vol 8 no 2

Last Rose of Summer

Haiku and image by Dan Hardison
Photo: Cookeville, Tennessee


World Haiku Association, Jan 2013