Grandbaby
Oh little child, you bring the mysteries
of rainbows, storybooks, and pixie dust
to life with tiny smiles. Your mama fussed
with pink and perky bows and gowns, to please
her special angel, pausing once to tease
with cooing whispers, even as she shushed
the puppy (though without success, it must
be said). Your grandpa seems to be at ease
with all the bustle—yes, of course, that’s me,
selecting little moments of your days
to revel in the magic, standing by
for every need, rekindling energy
from long ago, embracing all the ways
you lift our spirits to a sunny sky.
Paul Buchheit is an author of books, poems, progressive essays, and scientific journal articles. He recently completed his first historical novel, 1871: Rivers on Fire. His poetry has appeared in The Lyric, Illinois State Poetry Society, Poets & Patrons of Chicagoland, Maria W. Faust Sonnet Contest, Society of Classical Poets, and other publications.
A charming sonnet, Paul, remarkable for extensive enjambment that makes it read like an unrehearsed flow of grandpa’s tender emotions. “Yes, of course, that’s me” claims the baby for the author–or better, perhaps, allows the grandbaby as central figure to draw grandpa into her circle of admirers. A nice touch for the sonnet’s turn, expanding naturally into the magic and energy that bring about the happy conclusion of “lift our spirits to a sunny sky.”
Thanks, Margaret!
Paul, this will be a precious poem treasured by your family forever. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for your kind words, Roy.
What a wonderful tribute to your grandbaby. As a man who has no grandchildren, I am lucky to have a number of “adopted” granddaughters who have graced my elderly years as much, I imagine, as real grandchildren. I have written poems about them all. May the memories of yours be as blessed as those of mine!
Thanks, Jeff
What a lovely poem. The enjambment in the poem flows effortlessly, ensuring the reader shares in the joyfulness expressed.
Thanks for the read.
Thanks, Paul!
I agree with Margaret; very effective use of enjambment here. Your sonnet resonated with me, as I am awaiting the arrival of two more grandchildren next year.
Thank you, David.
I know what it is like to see a daughter bring forth a daughter and a son of her own. There’s nothing else quite like it. I thank the author for reminding me of the miraculous confluence of events I might have taken for granted. This is the real reason why men marry. Legacy is everything.
Thanks for your comment, C.B.
Paul, you capture the gift of grandparenthood beautifully in this sunshine-smile of a sonnet. I appreciate every well-crafted line. It’s lovely to see you back at the SCP!