As we continued on in our travels in Melbourne, Australia, modern architecture became one of the most striking sights encountered. Of course, we discovered historical cottages and public buildings in Melbourne as well. But, the juxtaposition of these different styles brings forth the vitality of this country in a good way. Although you may prefer your own style of architecture, you will agree that the youthfulness and excitement of modern Melbourne foretells the future of Australia as a very interesting place indeed.

Notes on the song “Silvia Part Two (Who Bought The Farm”

Poetic Form:            Imayo (Japanese)
The Rules
1.         Four lines per stanza
2.         12 syllables per line
3.         Includes a caesura, or pause, (a hyphen, comma, etc.,) that creates new perspectives, often contrary, between thoughts of the first seven syllables and the last five syllables.

Imayo poems originally were sung. Any subject matter is acceptable. The poem need not rhyme.

Lyrics
Born and raised on big ol’ farms – urban colleges
Living close to her nature – to see and to learn
Was taught by experience – stacks and stacks of books
Chores completed every day – papers due this term

         Lovely fields fan out in waves – is this just nonsense?
Images running wild – light an explosion
Only one of six children – and bills yet to pay
Hard to face your dreams sometimes – “It might just kill them!”

          Agricultural tech skills – and learn from her art
The hurt in a young girl’s eyes – no money to spend
Moving out of state foretold – just you wait and see
Losing her only big dream – this could be the end

          Thankful for a decent chance – she still needs to paint
“Everything will turn out fine” – farm is claimed by banks
Earlier leaving for school – an instance of fright
A bump and a moaning sigh – “Some kind of a prank?”