The Front Door

A set of stairs leading down from a lush walkway brings visitors to the front lanai of the Merwins’ house. The air here is frequently perfumed with gardenias and the delectable fragrance of Stanhopea orchids, spilling from the baskets hanging from the eaves. Gardening tools and walking sticks sit in baskets. The green door is adorned with a brass knocker in the shape of a vixen.

Two dogs draped with lei stand guard on either side. A shoe rack William built by hand, along with ceramic pots and woven baskets collected during travels, welcome guests. And on the right of the door, a small metal entry bell marks this threshold, signaling transition from the outer world to a still interior.

William’s poem “By the Front Door” captures—in just three striking lines—the experience of arriving here:

Rain through the morning
and in the long pool a toad singing
happiness old as water