In the Next Life

I will
be the cedar
that slows the wind along
fences and welcomes back the birds
each spring.

Cindy Tebo

Judges' Notes:  This beautifully crafted cinquain evokes the contest theme and looks at spring from an unusual perspective.  I can hear the sound of the wind in the slight "w" and "s" alliteration as well as the longing of the poet's desire to be a cedar in the next life.  Bravo!  ~ DPK

The very natural diction of this poem is appealingly sincere, and the message echoes the magnanimity of Spring.  Lines 1 & 5, "I will . each spring", suggests an eternity of such generous service.  Line 5 has a fine turn, from the mere future to the endless hereafter.  For such plain-speaking to be so mellifluous is a real accomplishment.  The title adds real value to the cinquain. A truly wonderful poem.  ~ DG

 

Awakening
Now comes
this certain light.
It wakes the greens, and paints
the air we breath with golden warmth,
wet earth.  

Laurene Post

Judges' Notes:Cinquains are often effective as short sentences and Laurene's is no exception to this format.  The poem flows well and deftly paints the contest theme in the reader's mind - light after winter darkness, waking the earth.  "Paints the air we breath with golden warmth"...lovely! ~ DPK

The slightly elevated diction here is nicely supported by gorgeous imagery. For such rhetorical language to flow so utterly smoothly is remarkable.  The first line imparts a fine immediacy to the poem.  ~ DG

 

Spring Delights  

Blue skies
frame cherry buds
soon to break into bloom.
Though not for long - a good wind brings
pink snow.  

Gary Blankenship

Judges' Notes: Gary's poem also nicely conveys the contest theme as well as effectively using a color connection between the first and fifth lines, "Blue skies...pink snow".  I smiled as I contemplated the image of "pink snow"!  Nicely done. ~ DPK

The light touch of humor in the conclusion of this cinquain takes the poem beyond an appreciation of the beauties of Spring to a fond comment on its transitory nature, which gives a nice edge to the title. This poem is particularly rich in its vowel sounds with well-handled alliteration. The more I read this poem, the better I like it!  ~ DG

 

(untitled)

afloat
in a puddle
among seed pods and leaves
a child's blue origami boat
casts off

Terrie Relf

Judges' Notes:  The flow of the diction in this delightful cinquain sails as smoothly as the origami boat sails in my imagination.  Lovely. ~ DPK

This beautiful cinquain is an excellent example of American cinquain as haiku, consistent with the inventor's intentions.  Stunningly delicate imagery - unforgettable!  ~ DG