for Anthea
the last of the sun’s rays
linger through the stained-glass door
the latch-gate swings in the breeze
from the sea
stones to the hearth still warm
dust spots dance and swirl
in shafts of light
a timber venetian snaps lightly
against the window frame
familiar fragrances
console and enclose:
frangipani
freshly plucked coriander
cinnamon incense
a steaming glass
of ginger tea
the cool shaded hallway
pacific and obliging
reaches safely into every expectation
as a murmuring grandfather sea
continues to send soothing breezes
all the day’s monuments fall away
peace is cool and still for a time
and I am home
martin challis © 1981 (reworked 2014)
Recent Comments