At_Last

Shells G.F.E. McGuiness

Shards of color in the sand Scattered Broken Here and there Slippers, drills, western wings Entwine the mermaid's hair.

Could each alone hold back the tide? Fragments, these, of some who tried? Single efforts - disbelief - The glory of the reef. Old scars fade duller on the hand Scattered Broken Here and there Of whipper's skill, no longer stinging Fresh as when put there. Could each alone hold back the cry? Fragments, these, of one who tried. Solitary tear drop, failing, Leagues of salt for smoother sailing. Memory's wounds of brackish pain, Brine that brings the rain.

93