Rob Harle #21 The Mermaid
Keeping her lone vigil
the enigmatic Iluka mermaid waits,
arm raised shielding her moist eyes,
the setting sun glistens
dancing across the mirror-glass water.
Her ancient ancestor Atargatis,
great Syrian goddess
not to blame really
though the legend remains.
The trawlers head seaward,
wave to their protectress
crucial for a safe return,
no guarantees in this work,
the sea is a cruel mistress
but the spiritual connection remains.
Ploughing through the plankton-green sea
engine humming a tinnitus tune
a perfect beat,
a heartbeat for the fishermen,
slowly
the dark of night nudges in.
The Iluka mermaid breathes easily again,
the trawlers return
the sun pushing them in,
a gentle bow wave slides across the bay.
Her eyes are dry,
now she settles in for the day.
That's beautiful, Rob.
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