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INSIGHT TO
NOVEMBER
The Prose
November is perhaps the most moving month of the year, steeped in
tradition and teeming with expectancy. Why yearn for sunnier climes or a
terracotta tan when November's seasonal pulchritude comes free of charge. Broad
avenues, awash with colour and piled high with copper jewels: red-gold gems cascading
from majestic trees, making way for fresh creations of embryonic buds.
Natural beauty contrasts sharply with more morbid attractions. Searing
bonfires concoct a vivid tableau. Orange flames triumphantly lick the feet of
man-made guys, egged on by a jubilant audience gobbling sausages and baked
potatoes. Historical, traditional, and macabre, as are the fireworks: pretty
explosives noisily winging, gloriously beguiling.
Scarlet poppies adorning our attire signify remembrance for the soldiers
who fought for liberation … the war dead, who gave us optimism. Yields of
mistletoe and holly and sometimes early snow prompt thoughts of Christmas
celebrations, of nativity, and gatherings of families and friends.
Thus, November is a month of diverse elements: breathtaking, poignant,
and sad. But it is never dull and those who claim that it is should examine its
true potential, and wrest a soupçon of comfort from the depths of the sombre
monotony that exists solely within their hearts.
This is November. Enjoy!
November was the month, many years ago, when I was seriously burnt and
had the misfortune to be in hospital when victims of bonfire and firework
‘accidents’ were admitted. I felt obliged to write the poem (see it in my sidebar) which incorporates other monstrous November scenes.
ugh...i know this time of year has to be pretty heavy for you considering all that happened...my november usually marks the turn to darkness and hibernation....time change this weekend...
ReplyDeleteGoood stuff as usual, Val. You are a better person than me inside, but I do try, honest!
ReplyDeleteGoood stuff as usual, Val. You are a better person than me inside, but I do try, honest!
ReplyDeleteI do love November because it's my birthday month and the birthday month of other members of my family too. I can understand why November brings back bad memories for you Valerie, after what happened to you. I've never been fond of the fireworks tradition I have to say.
ReplyDeleteThere was enough of a risk element when fireworks were hand lit, one at a time. But when something went haywired, everything stopped.
ReplyDeleteNot so any more with the computer controlled pyrotechtics that scare the by jeepers outta me. I'll watch.......but from WAYYYYY over there, tyvm. I have a great respect for fire, bourne from some experiences. As do you, I'd guess.
November is a difficult month for many--toss in Thanksgiving and dealing with family/losses....it's a toughie! But there are such beautiful things about November. So I'm good with it showing up.
:-) LOL Like I was gonna be able to stop it?!
I can understand the unhappy memories you have of November....but it is one of my most favorite months. Your poetry is very evocative of the month.
ReplyDeleteBrian, we already had a time change... dark early now... roll on spring.
ReplyDeleteKen, don't you believe it.... should we have a contest, do you think?
Pearl, Happy birthday wishes throughout the month, cos I don't know the date.
Mel, I hate fire with a vengeance... understandably. But I agree, and I think I said, that November is a beautiful month - so long as they keep the damn fires under control.
Banker Chick, thank you. I keep forgetting that the US doesn't celebrate with fire like we do, we have Guy Fawkes Day on (5th November) and a bonfires to celebrate the time GF tried to burn down Parliament buildings.
I can understand your dislike of November since it's tied to a bad memory. I am not a big fan of fireworks - I mean - I like the COMMERCIAL ones where I go and see them. But not the ones that people buy (illegal in our state)and shoot off. I always fear someone will blow a finger off or something!
ReplyDeleteFirst, allow me to say that I loved your words in this Insight To November, Valerie. Truly, beautiful words you expressed. You painted a picture perfect description of November.
ReplyDeleteSecond, your poem (on your sidebar) was so well written. I can't imagine what it must have been like to go through what you did and I can totally understand your feelings. But what I admire about you is that you talk openly and honestly about it.
Sending you a BIG cyber hug, dear lady...
(((((((((((( You )))))))))))))))
Have a lovely weekend!
X
Well when you put it like that how can I not enjoy the wonderful month of November. It's a pretty good month because my Little Miss Hayden was born on the 21st, and she certainly helps make everything better. Take care Val, and hope all is well with Joe.
ReplyDeleteI always say that each season (and moth) has something that we can look forward too. And wishing that time would fly away, just so it's another season is pointless and wasteful of the short time we have on this earth.
ReplyDeleteMersad
Mersad Donko Photography
Mersad, I never wish my life away, at least I don't think so. It's just that some months are more memorable than others.
ReplyDeleteMatthew, I can't believe it's almost Hayden's birthday. Where does the time go?
ReplyDeleteRon, thank you. Some people say it hurst to talk about their experiences. I prefer to, even at the risk of boring others, simply because it helps! I appreciate cyber hugs, that's another thing that makes me feel good x
ReplyDeletePat, yes I quite liked commercial bonfires and firework displays, it's the ones run by unthinking or uncaring people that worry me. We're not supposed to have any bonfire here after 6pm but some people ignore the ruling.
ReplyDeleteMoving. Engrossing. Touching. Great post!
ReplyDeleteHere's hoping that November holds more happiness than sadness. More joy than woe. More smiles than tears.
Herman, I hope November is the way we all want it to be. Wouldn't that be nice?
ReplyDelete