The Bather

I understand that this is probably not the interpretation most people would have about this photograph. Let me explain: I have been obsessed with the singer/songwriter Mark Lanegan of late. If you know his music, you know many of his themes are dark. Add his deep sad voice to the music and you have a soulful sound that creates a somber penetrating mood; a look at the dark side if you will. So you have this semi-nude female of stone, large slabs of cold quarry slate, and a dark pool…and the song Bloodline, the inspiration for this poem. The sculpture is actually called The Bather, located at the outdoor sculpture garden, OPUS 40.

Soft touch on the steps of stone,

Feeling her way

Down to the black water brother,

Dark is the day.

Is she waiting

For someone to say

People are cruel to each other,

Live another day.

Slowly she slips from her gown,

Her hair falls away.

She steps in the black water brother,

A look of dismay.

Is she thinking

What others will say?

Tears fall from her eyes mother,

Far from the fray.

Dark water up to her chin,

Closed eyes betray.

The heart has grown numb brother,

Cold is the day.

Will she listen,

A voice starts to pray.

Is there a heaven sister?

Live another day.