In Memory Of Jane Fraser Poem by Geoffrey Hill

In Memory Of Jane Fraser

Rating: 3.6


When snow like sheep lay in the fold
And wind went begging at each door,
And the far hills were blue with cold,
And a cloud shroud lay on the moor,

She kept the siege. And every day
We watched her brooding over death
Like a strong bird above its prey.
The room filled with the kettle's breath.

Damp curtains glued against the pane
Sealed time away. Her body froze
As if to freeze us all, and chain
Creation to a stunned repose.

She died before the world could stir.
In March the ice unloosed the brook
And water ruffled the sun's hair.
Dead cones upon the alder shook.

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Faith Elizabeth Brigham 15 October 2005

A very sad poem extremely well written...magnificant job!

0 3 Reply
Adeeb Alfateh 18 July 2019

She kept the siege. And every day We watched her brooding over death Like a strong bird above its prey. The room filled with the kettle's breath. Damp curtains glued against the pane Sealed time away. Her body froze As if to freeze us all, and chain Creation to a stunned repose. loving memory love; great 10++++++++++++++++++++

0 0 Reply
Saranyan Saranyan 08 February 2012

wonderful and interesting...

1 4 Reply
Clark Shattuck 04 May 2009

I agree with Neil Young, brilliant. But I wish there was some expository preface re: Jane Fraser. I'm assuming she was, among other things, a victim of poverty, not able to pay her utility bill?

3 2 Reply
Neil Young 28 November 2008

This poem is perfect. The choice of words, imagery and measured pace exude brilliance. I have read several other poems of Geoffrey Hill featured in the British Poetry Since 1945 collection. I will be reading more...

3 2 Reply
Simone Inez Harriman 15 October 2005

Love this one Geoffrey. So well done thank you much enjoyed.

0 4 Reply
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