Inspired by all three images
Monsieur Qui in the Garden
There’s a ghost in the garden–
a man with a hat from a century ago,
sitting as if for a portrait–
(I think he’s French.)
He seems content,
as he sits and smokes
his hand-rolled cigarette,
the scent drifts over the first roses
as real as this serene garden
of fall fruit and spring flowers,
a fantasy
as elusive as peace.
I am once again participating in Paul Brookes’ April Ekphrastic Challenge. Each day, I will post my poem(s) here. You can see the art and read the other responses by going to Paul’s site here.
The artists are Gaynor Kane, John Phandal Law, and Anjum Wasim Dar. Thank you for your wonderful and inspiring art!
Don’t forget if you want to join me for There’s a Poem in this Place: Poets in the Blogosphere,
It’s tomorrow, 23 April 4:00-5:30 PM, Eastern Daylight Time. You must register at:
https://tinyurl.com/Poets-in-the-Blogosphere
Poets who will be reading at this live event:
Elizabeth (Liz) Gauffreau (moderator)
Luanne Castle
Serena Agusto-Cox
Ken Gierke
George Franklin
Stephanie L. Harper
Carla McGill
Merril D. Smith
Robert Okaji
Yesterday and today: Merril's historical musings 
I love this one Merril 🌸 all the best for your reading tomorrow 🤩
Thank you so much, Ingrid!
Good luck with your hike. I hope you have beautiful weather.
It looks fine but windy – I’ll have to hold on to my hat! 🧢 thank you…
🌬
Beautiful piece! I could almost see the man 🙂
Thank you very much! 😀
lovely and descriptive Merril. Enjoy your reading!
Thank you, Cindy! 😊
He does seem French. Always elusive, that peace. (K)
Yes, indeed.
Beautifully done. I like the introduction of the sense of smell. The final line makes such a vivid contrast
Thank you so much for your careful reading and thoughtful words, Derrick.
I agree, Derrick. I think that last line takes the poem to another level; I wasn’t expecting it.
Thank you so much, Liz!
You’re welcome, Merril!
Ooh, another fantastic poem!
Thank you so much! 💙
You’re welcome, Merril!
Wonderful! Love the imagined scent turning into the real one.
Thank you so much!
🙂