The Forest Sighs

Where shall I begin,
as the owl hoots its haunting call
as night accosts the forest floor,
and tree tops yearning,
reaching for the starlit thrall,
captured by beguiling moonlight highs,
as sound envelopes this silent land.
Sturdy pines so tall and straight,
like sentinels guard and in shadows make
the silver blue light of moon’s delight,
glistening in the spaces,
as fireflies dance upon the air,
like swirling yellow stars despaired,
not knowing where to go.
The owl its eyes so large and true,
way up high waiting a motion cue,
one small move and explode,
a swooping hunter’s pleasured meal bestowed,
and as wind so gently caresses bows and leaves,
a cracking echoes sharp then leaves,
as rustling soothes the dying embers of day.
As crickets rasp and birdsong
sweetly beguiles hearts,
a cacophony builds as darkness settles down,
forest night life in moonlight greets
as foragers and hunters earn their keep,
to live yet another day
another forest night.
And nature grins, in loving embrace,
for all that life is and sates,
and beauty attests the moonbeams,
flickering through those lofty needles,
like dreams of dancing on the breeze,
to accompany all in life
that call this forest home.
And clouds wander in languid daze,
above the canopy, under moon’s insistent gaze,
and serene the night, in lazy schemes of slumber,
when all the feasts are done
and rest is yet to come,
before that sun does drag itself
upon the growing blue,
the forest sighs.
Tony DeLorger © 2017
My books link for review and purchase
- Brutal Night - March 30, 2021
- Like a Breeze Recalls - March 27, 2021
- Torrents - September 5, 2020







Oh how I so love the forest. You put me right back into the forests of my childhood in the Pacific Northwest when camping. I would sneak out of the tent as Mom and siblings slept and sit with Dad by the campfire, listening to the forest and night critters. There was always an owl nearby, calling out to us till a small critter got his attention. The way a huge, heavy owl can swoop down upon prey without a sound always fascinates me. I love your verse, Tony.
Much appreciated Phyllis, you know how I love being in nature and all those sounds and smells. Absolutely love owls too. Take care.
Oh my gosh! Owls are fascinating. I have a large collection of owl statues and one picture of owls I drew and embroidered. I would love to have one of those little owls for a pet – but, owls are predators and, like other wild critters, belong in nature.
This poem is one that speaks directly to me Tony and have very much enjoyed it. Those that never walk in forest will never know the true meaning of bliss..
Glad you enjoyed Kurt, its one of my favorite places, the sounds and whispering of nature so calming and nurturing. Cheers!