Photo by Trnava University on Unsplash
There is a point where the excavation fails.
Where the ground is too hard
and the artifacts become elusive.
Where we spend too long
sifting through the backdirt,
searching for a diagnostic sherd we missed
some patterned rim or check-stamped proof
that there was once a heart
beating beneath the clay.
I sat at the edge of the pit,
waiting for a sign,
a scrap of data to prove
I wasn't just digging my own grave
in the name of a history
already forgotten
About the Creator
Archery Owl
Father and Friend
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions




Comments (2)
Love this! The “artifact” might not be something buried in the past at all… it could be the realization that you’re still the one doing the digging, still alive, still choosing what story gets uncovered. ✨
This felt so immersive and deep with layered meanings. Great job making us think. 💭