between wave and rocky beach
that marks the furthest reach of the sea,
I find, half-buried in a bed of kelp,
a curious lucent closed pocket,
tendrils dangling from each corner,
so named a mermaid's purse.
Within, a tiny dogfish quivers alive,
waiting for the moon to rise,
the waves to return,
life to begin.
Photo taken at the Brough of Birsay, Orkney, Scotland, September, 2009.
Like it. Full of resonance, the fish in a "womb" almost, waiting to be born.
ReplyDeleteLike the photo, too. Keep meaning to visit Orkney (the place in general, but I particularly fancy visiting the Wireless Museum!)
ReplyDeletegreat wordplay, beth.
ReplyDeleteWow. I agree with Mamta. This is enchanting.
ReplyDeleteGreat work, Beth.
ReplyDeleteIf you happen to get up to Findhorn, please post your impressions. Also, please send more of your fine work to CPR...
BTW, thanks for your comment on 'May 1506' over at For Every Year. I think you are mostly likely right about the native woman.
Barry