Telling the Bees

In spring's embrace, beneath the blooming trees,
The keeper walks, to share his winter tales.
He hums a tune, a breeze that softly sails,
To tell the bees of nature's melodies.

Their hives, alight with busy, buzzing ease,
Guard secrets deep, where honeyed fragrance dwells.
Each blossom's visit, a story it spells,
Of seasons turned beneath the sun's degrees.

"Your queen is well," he whispers, "and the hive
Thrives strong," he assures with a gentle hand.
In turn, they hum, their dance of life alive,

A pact of trust, a bond no words command.
This ritual, through which both thrive and strive,
Sustains the soul, the bees, the blooming land.

Meaning

“Telling the Bees” is a sonnet that captures the age-old tradition where beekeepers would communicate with their bees, especially in the spring, to inform them about significant events. This tradition symbolizes a deep connection between humans and nature, emphasizing the importance of bees in our ecosystem. The poem illustrates this interaction as a delicate dialogue, where respect and care are mutually exchanged. It highlights the bees’ vital role in pollination and the natural cycle, alongside the keeper’s stewardship and affection for his charges. This gentle exchange underscores the interconnectedness of all living things and the cycles of life and renewal that define our world.

Inspiration Behind

I found myself fascinated by the old custom of “telling the bees.” It’s such a poetic way to express the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. I wanted to capture the serenity and significance of this moment. Imagining a beekeeper, enveloped in the warmth of spring, sharing his life with the bees, felt like a beautiful scene. This tradition, rich in symbolism, inspired me to explore themes of communication, community, and continuity. Crafting each line, I felt closer to nature, reminded of the small wonders that stitch the fabric of our ecosystem together.