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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)