"Memory Tree" by J. Michael Tynan

When did I last sit dappled in a tree?

I look and want to say, child,

Remember now these moments as you climb high and free

(Whisper: tomorrow's tomorrow is too late)

The recognition won't reveal

Until a few rings meld in

Trunks mark time concealed

But if I peel the bark and show you knots of momentary magic

You'll just ignore me

A sentimental notion dismissed by childhood logic

Too young to know the wicked grace of time

Unfair of me to ask that it should matter

Until you see yourself the leaves of russet past your prime

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J Michael Tynan hails from Cork City, Ireland. He is the co-writer of the winning entry in the 2019 Cork International Folk Festival Song Contest. Two of his poems were recently published in Bindweed Magazine. He has staged two solo exhibitions of works that combine his photography and his poetry. He is currently producing and directing a film based on his short story 'Sorry'.