Bloom Where You Are Planted
Here nothing has been weighed
the copper canisters
contain no tags
no names, no stigma
In this sacred space
five thousand one hundred
and twenty one souls
have found their freedom
Rainbow framed
crushed like petals
they are multi-coloured
ghosts edging the light
Azure seas, verdigris forests
places never known
are now expressed
within their dreams
No apportioning of blame
no retribution-
karma captured
in a silent scream.
Eye On Life Poetry Contest 2010-2011 Honorable Mention
N.B. From 1913 to 1971 five thousand one hundred and twenty one mentally ill patients were cremated on the grounds of the Oregon State Hospital. Their remains were sealed in copper canisters and virtually forgotten until Artist and photograher David Maisel heard of their existence and photographed some of them. The colours of the canisters were so intensely vibrant as not to seem real.