Ode to Bob Christin
R Martin Basden's most recent poem to appear here was Blanket Down (June 2010). This poem is a tribute to Robert Christin, founder of The Albright Poets. Bob's most recent poem to appear here was The Words and the Music, published as part of Contributor Series 7: The Confessional Diary of Bone.
Ode to Bob Christin
By R Martin Basden
By R Martin Basden
One can't presume to know
how gratitude is worn by another.
Some feel comfortable slipping into it as a cardigan on days when bluster swipes
like cold criticism on the shoulders,
or as a cherished bracelet sure to elicit compliment
and the chance to crow about its giver.
Perhaps a special hat
jaunty, rakish, with a feather, will serve.
Whatever the accoutrement,
it will be both reminder and symbol
of the grace you shared with everyone.
I'll wear mine for you like a pair of favorite socks.
Every day, with both feet, remembering your encouragement,
the way you find the germ of life
in dry colorless arrangements of words,
and set a hybrid upon the mantle
above your fireplace.
Posted by Annmarie at 9/22/2011 11:57 PM 
Categories: today's words
Tags: R Martin Basden Bob Christin gratitude tribute generosity grace admiration
Categories: today's words
Tags: R Martin Basden Bob Christin gratitude tribute generosity grace admiration
What a lovely tribute. Well done. Bob must be a very special person.
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Marty, this is a beautiful tribute.
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Marty,a lovely ode to a lovely man. I am honored to know you both.
Sharon
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