Earth Valley

​There are no human sounds. 
Instead, there is the cluck-gurgle 
of a mountain stream, 
the twit-whirl of small birds chatting, 
the waves of gentle air through branches.
This is how it was in the valley, 
before human sounds began. 

​Spring is here, but it is no longer silent. 
An ingenious motor sends shivers 
through water and air. 
A mechanical claw digs the earth. 
Small animals leap fearfully 
from the barren tracks - 
they have learned to adapt. 
 
The valley is changed forever. 
Buildings stand in place of forests; 
dirt tracks are roads illuminated.
Humans protest destructive 
animal neighbours on expensive property. 
Stars no longer shine. 
Everything is forgotten.
 
Again, there are no human sounds. 
Fragile flowers poke heads 
through soil, and green ferns unravel in  
morning light - they have been here always,
for millennia. 
The valley claims again its rightful centre, 
now humans have vanished. 
​

Are you inspired to write?​
If you are inspired to write a page based on keeping well and active in an age of climate and nature emergencies, we would be pleased to hear from you. We're looking for a maximum of 380 words for each reading and it must be an original piece written by the person submitting it. All entries that are published will be anonymous.
For more information, or if you have any questions, email audrey@surefoot-effect.com

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