Michael Ray Smith: Nevada Watercolor Illustrator and Writer

 
 

Petroglyphs

4-6-96

Terraces, cut into sandstone hillsides
by waves of ancient Lake Lahonton -
gone so long ago - surround
Nevada's alkali flats and desert valleys.

Favorite hunting spots, caves
along the ledges - forgotten -
kept alive, by scenes of memorable hunts
and heroic deeds.

Paleolithic paintings - "Petroglyphs" -
beside declarations of honor
from newer generations,
scorned, and called "graffiti".

Except for some carbon dating -
done for the dedicated "ologists" -
is there really a difference?