Three Roads, by Stephen Kingsnorth

Distant View of Nazareth, by Holman Hunt (UK) 1861

Three Roads

The village, we hear, nestles,
but at crossroads people-watching
the banter carries
headlines and domesticity -
family feuds, deals done and battles won
to ears of growing wisdom,
amongst the shavings with a rural eye.
So childhood is no refuge,
from tattling tales, gabbling tongues,
prattling cackle or serenity.

The pilgrims pass with sorrow
and thanksgiving doves
though in the pack is stored
continued searching worry.

Caravans plod south,
arrogant humped carriers
bringing barter,
and if the scam succeeds
assured pot-bellied boasters
rehearse their returning brilliance
even as the pilgrims pass.

And crossing through
the battle wearied columns
meet the fresh-faced conscripts,
sneer and swear,
revile the money-making proud
and maybe curse the travellers,
but smile inwardly at worshippers
who remind them of their mothers.

Stephen Kingsnorth

Stephen Kingsnorth, retired from ministry in the Methodist Church, has had pieces accepted for publication by Nine Muses Poetry; Voices Poetry Blog; Eunoia Review; Runcible Spoon; Ink Sweat and Tears; The Poetry Village; The Seventh Quarry; Gold Dust; From the Edge and Allegro Poetry. https://poetrykingsnorth.wordpress.com/