Shipboard Premonition
SHIPBOARD
last night from starless skies a tiny sea bird fell
stunned and shaken, seeking shelter
from unfamiliar shipboard lights
I watched it falter with wings outstretched
to catch the phantom air
rise and hover
then tumble through the open door.
in my memory stirred a warning,
‘bird in the house - death before morning’
the haunting chant from childhood grew
as I felt its trembling heartbeat in my palm
I dared not look into its eyes lest I see
your spirit peering back wounded and lost
I cupped the soft warm body in my palm
till again I watched your shadowed wings take flight
to find their course in all-consuming night
(1996)
