Solstice Interlude

A series of summer poems

It is five days til the Summer Solstice, and in a burst of belated ‘spring cleaning’ (virtual archival work), I rediscovered a series of summer poems I wrote while van-living in coastal California a few years back. I share them below, interspersed with photos taken during that season, in the hopes that you find them tickling.

The summer solstice announces the preeminence of the sun each year, of course, and takes the form of the pregnant Mother Goddess (Cancer) overseeing the death of the twins of polarity (Gemini). She prepares the way for triumphant Leo, who himself is an honored sacrifice, lest we swoon in the heat of sheer solar power: all kings pass away. Changeability is celebrated in the mutable air sign as it gives over to the ripening of life on this wet earth; it’s berry/cherry season here in Europe, where pagan astrology developed.

The full Strawberry Moon will occur this year one day after the solstice. Next week, turn the trickster energy down to a sultry simmer; and don’t fear the water. Chances are you will be held by it.

(Poem #5 was boring to me, so I left it out.)

As always, if you’re interested in learning more about writing poetry (or other creative genres) at any level — beginner, advanced, wishful-thinking-stage — feel free to contact me for information about mentorship and guidance!