Dawn
We land in the dark, creep along the shore
The sun starts to rise, our time starts again
Morning
Ahead, a grand rectangular York stone tower
Beneath, an arched doorway divides the Inn
Four perfect windows, looking out, both sides
My head, my heart, eyes & feet to find you
Above, a deco clock, marble sundial square
Twelve golden marks, hands at eight
Black clouds shoot past in the wind
Blue sky and sun between only for an instant
St. George, Welsh Dragon, Saltire, Tricolour
Union flags, billowing, standards swaying
Cold rain, ice rocks fall and swirl in puddles
Rivers rise on the street, covering my shoes
Umbrellas inside out, people crouching
Others dragged along, flapping, almost flying
Dusk
The setting sun shines an orange light
Through white & grey clouds, custard stripes
Sagging black clouds draw a sudden curtain
The shrieking wind across the darkening sky
Monsoon deluge begins; hides the stone tower
A translucent sheet presses against my head
Ice wind on my skin, I close my eyes
Blinded, I shelter in the open doorway
Hunger
I look out at the harbour, the tethered boats
Safe from the waves behind high stone walls
Our journey begun out there and ended here
To find, at last, this peace, sanctuary from war
Night
I step inside, air so warm, so cosy
I hear a voice, then more, a chattering crowd
Come, here’s some food and drink, my friend
Another day and place, dreams begin again
As if I was a child. I stretch out on the bench
Soft towels, a welcome hug, blanket, cushions
A mug of blackcurrant, a custard crème
Shelter in the dark, welcome to my dream
©Christopher 2017/2020 [email protected]
Fly my flag for calm this stormy day;
St. George, Red Dragon, Saltire and Tricolour
Illustration: Claire Palmer