"Kindred" by Stephanie Dolben
Kindred
Running. Running.
Stopping.
Illustration by Alicia Hayden.
To catch my breath
before the wind takes it.
The fire in my legs cools quickly
as the adrenaline subsides, and dark skies
play out my song in stereo.
Winter rain pelts my skin,
washing away yesterday’s face.
Alas I cannot escape!
Even here in this barren place
my ancestors found their way before me.
A cottage interrupts the scene.
Benign
and reclaimed
by bracken, bramble and moss.
Then, through rusty fronds and ivy curtains I see you, brave vixen
taking refuge
where your enemy used to live.
Panic poises you for flight.
Wide amber eyes question my intent
and in a momentary pause for appraisal there is
recognition?
Eroded souls
seeking
Illustration by Alicia Hayden.
the Mother’s protection,
a remedy for past tragedy.
Finding
solace in solitude.
Instinct overrides the sentiment
and suddenly you flee.
The sins
of humankind
will forever taint me.
Evening mists rise up like spectres
from a patchwork of purple and sage.
I follow them down the path
that will eventually lead to tomorrow.
What is this poem about?
This poem is based on my own experiences and relationship with nature, and how it has helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. The character’s experience in the poem reflects my own thoughts and feelings on the healing powers of nature. I have always felt more of an affinity with the natural word than the human one, and the character’s encounter with the fox represents this. She sees something of herself in this wild creature and feels a connection. I saw parallels between them and liked the idea that they were two kindred spirits seeking solace in the wilderness of the moors.
Stephanie Dolben
Steph Dolben is a Zoology graduate, wildlife rescue volunteer, nature writer and blogger from North Wales, who is now based on the Wirral. She is particularly passionate about protecting bats and hedgehogs, and hopes to encourage people to learn about their local wildlife and inspire them to make their gardens more wildlife friendly.
You can find more of her work on Instagram @nessiesnaturenotebook.