FOR ANNE WITH AN 'E'

Poetry 
by 
​Stephanie Gage

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Since we cannot meet in this world
let us agree to meet
at your bedroom window
in Green Gables, Chapter 4.
We know Marilla will come in soon
but for now let me join you
so we can admire the cherry trees
in full blossom, together.
Let us get lost in the ‘dizzying’ fragrance
of the lilacs below
and look upon the ferns and mosses,
the fields sprinkled with dandelion
 
I want to be here with you
To tell you      
You will be alright.
 
Let us gaze upon
The Lake of Shining Waters
and pretend we see Lady Cordelia’s
16th century carriage,
let us listen for the babbling brook,
and imagine what the
frogs are doing right this minute
sway with me and the Poplar trees,
do you hear the chirp of the sparrows?

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The author said this: It is sheer delight to see a special issue devoted to Anne. She inspired me as a young girl, and is my role model even today, 30 years later. The poem I am submitting to you was part of my personal collection of poems, a letter I had written to a vulnerable young Anne, who was waiting to see if Marilla would keep her. Never did I dream there would be a special issue devoted to her! ​

Stephanie Gage revered Anne as a little girl and has never grown out of her ‘Anne’ phase. Stephanie holds a PhD in neuroscience and works as a biologist. When not in the lab, she can be found at her desk, or nearest coffee shop, writing poetry or prose. She is currently looking for representation for her historical novel about neuroscience discovery.

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