Tag Archives: Mary Oliver

If you have ever gone to the woods with me

Posted on May 9, 2021 by Brian D. Butler

“Ordinarily, I go to the woods alone, with not a single friend, for they are all smilers and talkers and therefore unsuitable… I don’t really want to be witnessed talking to the catbirds or hugging the old black oak tree. … Continue reading →

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I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world.

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Brian D. Butler

When Death Comes When death comes like the hungry bear in autumn; when death comes and takes all the bright coins from his purse to buy me, and snaps the purse shut; when death comes like the measle-pox; when death … Continue reading →

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August Everything Is Wrong

Posted on August 4, 2020 by Brian D. Butler

“August” by Mary Oliver Our neighbor, tall and blonde and vigorous, the mother of many children, is sick. We did not know she was sick, but she has come to the fence, walking like a woman who is balancing a … Continue reading →

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Meanwhile the world goes on

Posted on January 21, 2019 by Brian D. Butler

Even if you are not a regular reader of poetry, it’s likely that you have run across the work of Mary Oliver. Her writing is so simple, straightforward and accessible that it has found its way onto posters, mugs, and … Continue reading →

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