From Barren Ground

Poem and photography by Ashlen Faith

The fields lie in slumber, the vine cut back to root,

her branches are a memory, no sign of leaf or fruit.

The winter sets in cold, with sheets of glistening frost,

all is still and quiet, the summer sun long lost.

But deep beneath the snow, in soil soft and warm,

life is all but resting, expectant for the dawn.

For nature has but proven, that it is sure to come,

as certain as the moon and stars stand watchmen for the sun.

Though it seems slow in coming, don’t fret but watch and wait

not doubting but believing, the season’s never late.

You’ll see after a time has past, the rains will start to slow,

and lo behold, from barren ground, a shoot begins to grow.

This poem is from Ashlen’s debut poetry collection, Vessel, which is a collection of poetry, ponderings and prayers, woven together with black and white film. Purchase Vessel here.

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Ashlen Faith—Guest Contributor

Perth born, now residing in Margaret River, Ashlen spends her days brewing coffee, swimming in the sea, capturing light on her trusty old Nikon and pouring her heart out on paper. A lover of travel with an inherent need for venturing beyond her comfort zone regularly, Ashlen has found herself in numerous places and spaces across the world, from a Vauxhall van in Scotland to an old Pearler’s house in Broome. These experiences, alongside physical and mental health challenges, have been instrumental in refining her creative practice and strengthening her faith.