Irene Barri
Although my mother died at the age of 50 from ALS, I’d like to think I am still learning from the lessons she taught me in her short life. In Singing Star, the poem below, I am speaking only to the sadness of missing her when I was a child. Because of her work she traveled away from home (usually for only a few days at a time) but to a young child that stretch of time seemed like forever.
This poem plays only a small part of who we were together. In the years since her death I’ve explored our relationship in other works, and in the future I’ll continue to do so, because I believe I am forever growing up.
I’m inspired to think that there is still more to learn from the unique bond I shared with Mom. Recently, I read an article, The Problem of Writing About our Mothers by Amber Lea Starfire. Amber is a memoir writer, editor, and she teaches journal writing techniques. If you’re interested here is the link. https://writingthroughlife.com/the-problem-of-writing-about-our-mothers/
Singing Star
I never thought of my mother as singing star
but that’s what the poster says
petit figure wrapped in a sequin gown
one arm gracefully offering a pose
chin up, a peacock
people came from all around
for just one feather
My mother’s voice flowed liquid songs
that I drank in
one by one
youth is selfish
I wanted that voice all to myself
As I grew older she traveled further from home
“when you miss me,” she said, “look at the moon
pretend it’s me saying goodnight”
I forced my eyes to see her face illuminated
as if the moon could save her place
I wrote letters
“I read them on stage,” she said
Years after she died
I found her perfume in a department store
mother was in that bottle
I wanted to own it
but I left it
knowing hugs goodbye
would be too much to bear again
From my book, Undertow, published in 2011. Contact me if you’d like a copy.
I’m very touched, Barbara. Beautiful sentiments.
Thanks, Marilyn. How kind of you to say.
Love it. Happy mothers day.
Oh wow Barbara. Just wow…this brought tears to my eyes! I’ll never get over how beautiful you write.
Thank you, Sarita, for such kind words. It means a lot.
Loved it Happy Mother’s Day
Thanks, Nan. Happy Mother’s Day to you too.
Absolutely beautiful
Thanks, Jo Anne.
That was so touching. I am now remembering her singing around my house when you came over to visit with us as youngsters. Both our moms would throw on a pot of spegetti and send us out to play. Beautifully written Barb
So good to hear from you, Debbie. Yep. I remember spaghetti at your house. So much fun! Love you..
Beautiful poem, Barbara – so touching, as is your posts. I can feel that little girl, missing her mother. Thank you for sharing my blog post as well.
post (not posts) 🙂
Thanks, Amber. Although I wrote the poem many years ago I found your article helpful in my explanation of the story behind the poem.
what a beautiful poem and introduction to the piece. i felt like i got a little snap shot into your mom and to you as well. and it set me off thinking about the unique connections and conflicts that embody the word mother. thanks for sharing and what a beautiful picture.
Thanks, Christina. The picture I also used with my story about Mom in the anthology, “Wisdom Has a Voice: Every Daughter’s Memories of Mother” edited by Kate Farrell. It’s a beautiful book of memoirs. Amber Lea Starfire wrote one of the introductions.
I love your poem Barb. It brought tears to my eyes. We all got to know her better and what is in your heart with these memories. Do you have some of her music? I would love to hear her voice.