Reflection of Lake Nebagamon

Settled now, I reflect on my midday hike –

The young and stunning white-tailed doe

That let me come within twenty feet,

Before it retreated into the sun-splattered underbrush,

Not in a rush but with hushed nonchalance,

As though I were just another tree in the midst.

Those are the words from Louis Daniel Brodsky’s “The Doe,” one of the poems in his newest book, “At Water’s Edge, Poems of Lake Nebagamon.” Brodsky, who first came to this northwestern Wisconsin village when he was just 10 years old, has returned again and again for more than 50 years. Volume one of the Wisconsin poems contains lyrical accounts of the region’s captivating natural beauty, as well as all phases of life in the area.

Brodsky will be signing his new book from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday in front of the historic Lake Nebagamon Auditorium. The book was published by Time Being Books and though it normally sells for $14.95, it can be purchased at the book signing for $10 in honor of Lake Nebagamon’s Fourth of July celebration. His appearance during this holiday weekend is sponsored by Kids In Nebagamon, which assists area children and families experiencing crises throughout the Northwestern School District.

“Some of Louis’ poems are colorful descriptions of the sometimes comical life in our community,” said Michele Hughes, who grew up in Lake Nebagamon and is now a member of the KIN board. “I especially enjoyed the poems he wrote describing the kids playing on the Lake Nebagamon beach.”

Anyone who has spent any time in this area of northern Wisconsin and enjoys reading poetry will love this book; “I can’t wait for Volume Two to be published,” said Kay Coletta, KIN secretary.

The books may also be ordered through KIN. Contact (715) 374-2283 or e-mail ccoletta@centurytel.net.

Tags: lake nebagamon, community, poems