Days of Heaven

(Ronsardian) Ode To Linda M.

How refreshing to have narration be
Commentary
That doesn't re-tell to me what I see
Oh contrary
The simple words and observations bring
A whole new level of understanding
Your haunting face
Your voice apace
Linda, you ethereal thing.

* * *

Dialogue scattered on the cutting room floor. It had served its purpose as a tool for the actors to bring their emotions to the screen, but it wasn’t needed anymore. Words weren’t going to add to the story. In fact they were in the way, cluttering up the place. They had to go--left among other pieces of the process that was explored and then discarded

. 

What to keep? 

The happy happenstance of the flock of birds caught on camera? 

Yes. 

The sand bird brought in to stand amongst the ashes? 

Yes. 

Who could have guessed what composition was going to emerge from that editing room? Perhaps future collaborators were able to divine their way into the workings of Malick’s mind and help with vision of it. They had the benefit of seeing the outcome of this film and could tell that a little trust in the creator pays off.