Crescent Moon
And Dick said, 'Look what I have found!'
And when we saw we danced around,
And made our feet just tip the ground.
We skipped our toes and sang, 'Oh-lo.
Oh-who, oh-who, oh what do you know!
Oh-who, oh-hi, oh-loo, kee-lo!'
We clapped our hands and sang, 'Oh-ee!'
It made us jump and laugh to see
The little new moon above the tree.
Ben Hains, “Star Chamber,” 1896, Mammoth Cave, KY, Postcard Collection, 1907-1987, image no. 0020-020-291, Eastern Kentucky University Libraries, Special Collections & Archives. Used with permission from EKU Archives.
About this Poem
By Brandi Bowlin
This poem offers readers an intimate look into Appalachian relationships and their connection to nature, featuring two subjects with spoken lines. While much of the poem (even the title) aligns with Roberts’ mindfulness and appreciation of nature, people are the main subjects. Dick and his unnamed dancing partner spend a joyous moment under a crescent moon, stepping to the tune of their own beat. Though the lines are indistinct, their song indicates excitement from observing and being a part of nature. The mere sight of the moon inspires movement and singing, urging the couple to tap their feet and clap their hands.
Dancing and singing are significant aspects of Appalachian culture. Traditional step dances, like clogging and flatfooting, require heavy percussive footwork, and the poem’s dancing partners perform similarly. Songs are equally influential in Appalachia, with traditional ballads and hymns originating from immigrants of the British Isles to the region, bluegrass music permeating the culture, and church hymns enhancing religious services. These pastimes contribute to the deep bonds of the Appalachian people, bringing people together in these already small, tight-knit communities.
The moon itself is a significant symbol in Appalachian culture. Many farmers still use the Old Farmer’s Almanac, which outlines moon cycles to show when best to plant and harvest crops. Other Appalachians might plan a fishing trip or wean their babies under different moon phases. The moon symbolizes change—the different phases representing the cyclical nature of life, including all of its new beginnings, growths, and transformations. It has an unquestionable power over nature, controlling the tides and serving as a beacon of light in the darkness. Though the dancers have likely seen the moon thousands of times, its majesty still evokes astonishment and delight as the dancers move in its light. They do not take their place in the universe for granted as they sing the moon’s praises. This scene can remind readers to enjoy the simple pleasures in life; even a seemingly insignificant moonlit dance can bring happiness.