"There is no frigate like a book"

In this poem, by Emily Dickinson, we feel the power of a book or a poem to carry us away from our normal setting. We sense the "prancing poetry"; see the horse and sleigh of her day.

The mind's eye brings distant and different lands to our memory. Yes, there is a glimpse of yesterday's Currier & Ives print. Children dressed like Eskimos. Christmas past.

But what of today? This Christmas I want to -----------, let my imagination fill in the blank. I can see myself on a Caribbean cruise; eyes closed to the bright sun, a gentle sea breeze. Sitting in a deck chair, soaking in the joy of Emily's book of poems.

For you there may be a first mate, or your own little Eskimos in swim suites. But this is your quite time. The re-creation of your soul. Take the time.


T-Bone