Lizette Woodworth Reese

No wind, no bird. The river flames like brass.
On either side, smitten as with a spell
Of silence, brood the fields. In the deep grass,
Edging the dusty roads, lie as they fell
Handfuls of shriveled leaves from tree and bush.
But ’long the orchard fence and at the gate,
Thrusting their saffron torches through the hush,
Wild lilies blaze, and bees hum soon and late.
Rust-colored the tall straggling briar, not one
Rose left. The spider sets its loom up there
Close to the roots, and spins out in the sun
A silken web from twig to twig. The air
Is full of hot rank scents. Upon the hill
Drifts the noon’s single cloud, white, glaring, still.

August Poems For Kids

August

Compiled by Karen and Mike Garofalo

"What wondrous life is this I lead!
Ripe apples drop about my head;
The luscious clusters of the vine
Upon my mouth do crush their wine;
The nectarine and curious peach
Into my hands themselves do reach;
Stumbling on melons, as I pass,
Ensnared with flowers, I fall on grass."
-  Andrew Marvell, Thoughts in a Garden  

"Open the window, and let the air
Freshly blow upon face and hair,
And fill the room, as it fills the night,
With the breath of the rain's sweet might.
Hark! the burthen, swift and prone!
And how the odorous limes are blown!
Stormy Love's abroad, and keeps
Hopeful coil for gentle sleeps.

Not a blink shall burn to-night
In my chamber, of sordid light;
Nought will I have, not a window-pane,
'Twixt me and the air and the great good rain,
Which ever shall sing me sharp lullabies;
And God's own darkness shall close mine eyes;
And I will sleep, with all things blest,
In the pure earth-shadow of natural rest."
-  James Henry Leigh Hunt, A Night Rain in Summer

"In summer, the song sings itself."
-  William Carlos Williams

"August rushes by like desert rainfall,
A flood of frenzied upheaval,
Expected,
But still catching me unprepared.
Like a matchflame
Bursting on the scene,
Heat and haze of crimson sunsets.
Like a dream
Of moon and dark barely recalled,
A moment,
Shadows caught in a blink.
Like a quick kiss;
One wishes for more
But it suddenly turns to leave,
Dragging summer away."
-  Elizabeth Maua Taylor 

and many more by Karen and Mike Garofalo>>

August’s Full Moon: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of a Sturgeon Moon

WHY IS August’s FULL MOON NAMED THE Sturgeon MOON?

August’s full moon is named the Sturgeon Moon due to its association with the abundance of sturgeon fish found in North American waters during this time of year. This naming tradition has roots in the Native American tribes of the Great Lakes region, who recognized the significance of the sturgeon fish and its availability during August.

Apart from the Sturgeon Moon, August’s full moon is also known by other traditional names. Some of these include:

1. Green Corn Moon: As August coincides with the corn harvest season, this name represents the ripening of corn crops.

2. Grain Moon: This name encompasses the general theme of the harvest, representing the gathering of various grains during this time.

3. Full Red Moon: The term “Red Moon” can also be associated with cultural and mythological interpretations. For example, some Native American tribes referred to the full moon in August as the “Full Red Moon” due to the reddish appearance it sometimes takes when rising above the horizon. This name was connected to their observations of nature and the seasonal changes associated with the August moon.

THE FOLKLORE OF August’S FULL MOON

The full moon has always captivated the human imagination, inspiring countless myths, legends, and folklore across different cultures and civilizations. In August, when the full moon graces the night sky, various traditions and ceremonies emerge, each reflecting the unique beliefs and customs of different regions. Let’s explore some folklore associated with August’s full moon and the ceremonies held to honor its presence in different parts of the world.

1. Native American Traditions: In many Native American cultures, the full moon in August is known as the “Sturgeon Moon” or the “Full Red Moon.” It is believed that this moon signals the time when sturgeon fish are abundant and can be easily caught in the Great Lakes and other bodies of water. Tribes such as the Ojibwe and Menominee held ceremonies and feasts during this period to celebrate the bountiful harvest of fish and express gratitude to the natural world.

2. Celtic Traditions: In Celtic folklore, the full moon in August is associated with the festival of Lughnasadh, also known as Lammas. This harvest festival marks the beginning of the harvest season and is dedicated to the god Lugh, the deity of light, craftsmanship, and abundance. People would gather on hilltops, light bonfires, engage in traditional games and sports, and offer prayers and sacrifices to ensure a fruitful harvest.

3. African Traditions: In some African cultures, the full moon in August is associated with rituals and ceremonies linked to the agricultural cycle. Communities would come together to offer prayers and perform dances, drumming, and storytelling. These activities were believed to invoke the moon’s blessings, ensuring fertile lands, abundant crops, and protection against evil spirits.

4. Neo-Pagan Traditions: In modern-day neo-pagan and Wiccan traditions, the full moon in August is often referred to as the “Corn Moon” or the “Grain Moon.” It symbolizes the ripening of crops and the abundance of the harvest season. Rituals and ceremonies may involve making corn-based dishes, creating corn husk dolls, and expressing gratitude for the Earth’s generosity.

These are just a few examples of the diverse folklore and ceremonies associated with the full moon in August around the world. Each culture infuses its unique beliefs, traditions, and customs into these celebrations, paying homage to the celestial beauty and the natural cycles that shape our lives. August’s full moon serves as a reminder of our connection to the Earth, the changing seasons, and the eternal mysteries of the cosmos.

Discover the optimal times to witness these captivating lunar events by using a Moonrise and Moonset Calculator