Backyard Delight
Haibun Poem The apple tree’s trunk split into two like outstretched open arms. A step onto a stump and an arm around one of the splits ensured an easy climb. Dean and I...
Author: Frank J. Tassone
Unexpected Feast
Haibun Poems All thirty of us sit at folding tables covered in plastic in Oscar’s hot, unfinished basement. Pipes emerge from the boiler in the back corner. One of them runs the length...
The Death Knell of Columbus
Haibun Poem The women wear suits. We file into the auditorium for our December Professional Development. Our Principal, Lisa, stands at the front. “Our agenda has changed. Please let me introduce our superintendent…”...
Holiday Epilogue
English Haibun Poem Oil cracks on the frying pan in the kitchen. Dice in a boggle bubble rattle. I just can’t stop plays on the black-and-blue mini radio Frankie got for Christmas. Aroma...
New Year’s Dinner
English Haibun Poem Gathered at the end of the table: Platters of feijoada (pig’s feet with chick peas), trays of rice, glasses topped with red wine so deep and strong it could pass...
First Gift-Opening Without Dad
Contemporary Haibun Poem Frankie’s hands tear away the wrapping. Brown eyes widen; the corners of his mouth rise: joyful shouting begins. “A pillow pet! Thank you! It’s what I’ve always wanted!” I snap...
Reconciliation
Contemporary Haibun The Camry pulls up. I shut the TV and make it to the vestibule. Open the cracked front door before she can. She looks at me. Her hesitation, anticipation and hurt—there for...
Observation
Contemporary Haibun Poem The silence unnerves me. My questions are met with their sealed lips and indifferent eyes. Outside our classroom, dappled Maple leaves collapse onto concrete. Time passes. My failing lesson tightens...
