Samhain

the fire that faces the dark

Poems written between Samhain and Yule (31 October – 20 December)

Background

Samhain/Halloween October 31st.

Samhain (pronounced Sow in – as in cow) is an ancient festival marking the end of the harvest and the move towards winter. It is often seen as the close of one year and the start of the next. Nature reminds us at this time that every cycle of growth also includes rest and renewal. Seeds fall into the dark earth, lying still and hidden, yet holding the promise of new life to come.

This season invites us to pause, reflect on the past, and dream of what we hope to grow in the future. Darkness and light are partners — one always follows the other — and in the quiet of the dark months, new beginnings take root.

Honouring the Ancestors

Samhain is also a time to remember and honour those who have passed away. This can be done in simple, meaningful ways:

• Set out photos of loved ones or even beloved pets.
• Cook and share their favourite foods.
• Light a candle for them or set an extra place at the table during a meal.
• Tell stories about them, keeping their memory alive.

By remembering them with love, we welcome their presence into our lives and carry their spirit forward.

Poems

• Samhain
  The air bright and crisp Sun warming and bright Blue sky with seldom cloud Like a perfect spring day But… Read more: Samhain
• Autumn
  A bright morning moon Frost hugs the ground Trees mostly bare And mist lingers Birds barely singing A slow dawn… Read more: Autumn
• Tree
  I nestle under your canopy Feel comforted by your awe and majesty Hugging your roughness Feeling in wonder of your… Read more: Tree
• Knot
  For a moment I was the last person on Earth Surrounded by beating wings Sound resonating through my body Mesmerising… Read more: Knot
• November
  November skies are dull and grey Oh cast me back to the month of May When flowers bloomed and songbirds… Read more: November
• Sunset
  Sunset  Nearly full  moon But Pink and orange Yellows and red Grey and blue  That evening hue And the moon… Read more: Sunset