The cooling tower
at the nuke
extends its searching
shadow. Across marshes
kids throw down
their bikes and,
sensing an ending,
run inside.
“THERE’S NO THROUGH TRAIL” —HAN-SHAN, TRANSLATED BY GARY SNYDER
About Peter Siegenthaler
Peter Siegenthaler teaches courses in world and Japanese history for Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. Recently returned to live in New England after many years away, he spends his time outside of teaching engaged with local community organizations, writing in various genres, building furniture, hiking, and working to restore an old house. His work has appeared in Osiris, Compound Eye, Pen International, and lift.
Cold Mountain Review is published once a year in the Department of English at Appalachian State University. Support from Appalachian’s Office of Academic Affairs and College of Arts and Sciences enables CMR’s learning and publications program. The views and opinions expressed in CMR do not necessarily reflect those of university trustees, administration, faculty, students, or staff.