never believe the stone angels
listen closely to raven and possum
at night, ask the moon for permission
walk backwards past ivy-grown plots
do not cross running water
do not dig in the early hours
do not stand atop gravestones at sunset
draw your eyelids shut as you leave
35.0: OZ-KO (ENVOY)
Poetry Editor David PraterReleased April 2011
Contributor Notes
OZ-KO (ENVOY) is the first part of Cordite's special thirty-fifth issue showcasing contemporary poets from Australia and the Republic of Korea in an unique bi-lingual exchange.
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It’s right and true that z comes first. I used to live right near a cemetery too, in Busby Parade, Bronte, Sydney and this has spurred me to write about it, thanks. Doctor Who-inspired? I love the stepping backwards quality of thought here and the spell of the poem.
Thanks for stopping by, Jen; I’m glad you liked the poem. A couple of people have asked about Dr Who, but I only remembered that episode afterwards! Hope we get to read your Busby grave musings soon.