monastic

stillness dwells in frail obscurity
listening to the whispers and
smiling slightly in return.

snowfall mutes the crackling
forest chatter with a serenity
of cold white comfort.

the bell tolls, signaling the call
to communal liturgy, pure
baritones rising in soulful

enchantment as sandal shod feet propel
cloaked forms in off-white linens
with hoods to obscure each visage.

spartan private quarters quarrel
with comfort, but invite quiet
reflection and silent prayer.

eloquence would seem trite
in this cloaked landscape
of severe ascetic quietness.

11 April 2007 by Glen Alan Woods

Written in tribute to the monks of the Grand Chartreuse Monastery in the French Alps