A Boatful of Hope

Day has sunk and the old fisherman, like a well-trained athlete, rows his rugged boat. Defying starry night's turbulent waves, It cruises seaward, smooth and swift, like an agile proud fish. Then, into his net a shooting star drops; hauls he a thousand delicate, bright starfish. Guided by remaining stars, he comes home with a boatful Of glimmering soft, fleshy crystals of hope to his daughter's eager waving At the murky, starless bay. Her voice rushes out in tidal sound-waves. She puts a finger in, fishing One live hope, stellar and warm, out of what used to be a champion's sailboat. Rocking the boat and making waves, their laughter splashes like a floundering fat fish. (Form: loose tritina)