A peculiar post today about a Federal style “fish eye” mirror I sought (but never bought) for Rosslyn’s foyer when we were still rehabilitating, still decorating, still conjuring a whole home out of myriad discrete parts. Mostly a poem flanked with wistful renderings of two history hued artifacts that whisper neoclassical prayers while subtly dilating and distorting the here and now.
I’m reminded of words delivered by Murray Burns (played by Jason Robards) in the 1965 film, A Thousand Clowns. This refrain peppers our Davis family conversations to this day.
“You can’t have too many eagles.”
— Murray Burns (Source: A Thousand Clowns by Herb Gardiner)
The American bald eagle, so much a symbol of our nation’s courage and strength (especially in the decades when Rosslyn was being born), has become a constant if evolving presence in recent times. Today’s images and poem might be criticized for lacking clarity. For offering blurry edges. Sorry.
Eagle Mirror
Wood carved, gilded,
patinated,
encircles a
domed semi-sphere.
The crazed mirror's
convex glass warps
my reflection.
Thirteen orbs ring
the dilated
and distorted
not quite likeness,
a colonial
allusion,
parts united.
Presiding proud,
the bald eagle,
stern and ready,
wings outstretched,
tops the fledgling
nation, whispers
of history
and ambition.
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