Vol. 11 No. 1 (2019)
Narrative

Autumn Circle and Hummingbird Soars with Thunderbird

Renee Lehnen
Bio
Dragonfly

Published 2019-06-13

How to Cite

Lehnen, R. (2019). Autumn Circle and Hummingbird Soars with Thunderbird. Journal of Integrated Studies, 11(1). Retrieved from https://jis.athabascau.ca/index.php/jis/article/view/294

Abstract

"Autumn Circle" was written in autumn, in a world of deep reds and vibrant oranges, strikingly similar to the hues in the painting. The mood of the image and the theme of the poem reflect a spirit of warmth and cooperation as families prepare for winter together. Across Turtle Island, beings of all ages and forms confront change together, yet on their own terms, as the seasons turn. This poem won fourth place in the Journal of Integrated Studies 2018 Ekphrastic Poetry Competition. Little Hummingbird refers to the artist, the late Brian Marion. "Hummingbird Soars with Thunderbird" honours a man’s life and death through verse rooted in the Ojibwe imagery of animals and mystical beings. Repeating first and last verses reflect the cyclical nature of all life. The poem was written in a spirit of gratitude for Brian Marion’s art including this powerful, untitled piece. This poem won first place in the Journal of Integrated Studies 2018 Ekphrastic Poetry Competition.