Charles Darnell‘s tranquil yet moving poem, Planting, sets the tone for The Ocotillo Review as the opening to the first themed issue. In this day of extended life spans and non-traditional endings to our time on Earth, it seemed only natural to explore the end of life in the age of technology. Join Charles and 34 other literary artists as they explore this topic. Order your copy of The Ocotillo Review Volume 2.2 here while supplies last.

Planting

When I die,

do not place me

in a cold coffin

surrounded

by the pale chill

of concrete liner.

I do not want

the velvet puff

of silk about my

body.

I will not be there.

Dig a hole in soft earth,

place me deep

and naked in the ground.

Cover me with sandy loam,

no marker put

upon this spot

to wither and fade forgotten.

Above me plant

a red oak tree,

water with love and care,

and when it grows

I will shade your brow

and sing you rest

when the Spring wind blows.

Charles Darnell lives in San Antonio and is a member of the Sun Poet’s Society. His chapbook, Water, Tongues, Earth, and Blood was released by Finishing Line Press earlier this year.