In a poignant exploration of childhood and resilience, poet Carl Little presents his latest work, “Cling.” The poem reflects on the enduring joy and strength derived from childhood experiences, even as we navigate the complexities of adulthood. Little’s vivid imagery evokes scenes of sunfish nests and apples flung from poles, reminding readers of the innocence and wonder of youth.
Little, who resides on Mount Desert Island, is also the author of “Blanket of the Night: Poems,” set to be published by Deerbrook Editions in 2024. His poetry has appeared in various respected publications, including the Maine Arts Journal and The Café Review, as well as in multiple anthologies curated by Wesley McNair. One of his notable contributions, “The Pond of Life,” is featured in “Alive to This: Essays on Living Fully by 20 Maine Writers,” published by Littoral Books in 2024.
Exploring the Themes of Childhood
“Cling” encourages readers to reconnect with their younger selves and highlights the importance of those formative years in providing comfort during challenging times. The poem opens with a nostalgic look back at boyhood, inviting readers to remember moments that shaped them. Little writes, “Revisit boyhood as you age, recover hair that shone, beaver teeth and eyes that found sunfish nests by the dock.” Such imagery serves as a metaphor for the wisdom and strength that can guide us through life’s uncertainties.
The poem further illustrates the simple pleasures of childhood, such as climbing trees and observing the world from a distance. Little captures the bittersweet nature of growing up, emphasizing that while seasons change and doubts may arise, the memories and experiences from our youth remain steadfast.
Submissions Open for Underrepresented Voices
In addition to celebrating individual works, the Deep Water initiative, produced in collaboration with the Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance, is currently accepting poetry submissions, particularly from underrepresented voices. This includes writers from Black, indigenous, and LGBTQ+ communities, among others. Interested contributors can submit their work through the Deep Water platform at mainewriters.org/deep-water, with the submission window open until the end of the year.
“Cling,” copyright 2025 by Carl Little, was first published in the Maine Arts Journal and appears here by the author’s permission. As readers engage with Little’s evocative poetry, they are reminded of the lasting impact of childhood and the resilience it fosters in adulthood.
