Heaney Two-fer

The Diviner


Cut from the green hedge a forked hazel stick
That he held tight by the arms of the V:
Circling the terrain, hunting the pluck 
Of Water, nervous, but professionally


Unfussed. The pluck came sharp as a sting.
The rod jerked with precise convulsions,
Spring water suddenly broadcasting
Through a green hazel its secret stations.


The bystanders would ask to have a try.
He handed them the rod without a word.
It lay dead in their grasp till nonchalantly
He gripped expectant wrists. The hazel stirred.


Scaffolding


Masons, when they start upon a building,
Are careful to test out the scaffolding;


Make sure that planks won't slip at busy points,
Secure all ladders, tighten bolted joints.


And yet all this comes down when the job's done
Showing off walls of sure and solid stone.


So if, my dear, there sometimes seems to be
Old bridges breaking between you and me


Never fear. We may let the scaffolds fall
Confident that we have built our wall.


If you are interested in poetry, and don't know Seamus Heaney, acquaint yourself. His use of language, both figurative and literal, is utterly incredible. You won't regret it.