by Justine Pechuzal

We came here with fear
laid careful defenses
and left.

Meanwhile wind swept fog
over the saddle.
Waves lapped one side,
dashed the other.
Rock remained steady.
Alder lifted thin necks
above concrete bunkers
and moss dug deep into pebbled pores.
Somber black-suited sea birds
found solace on listing piers.

We came back with steps
measured by tide and effort
looking for a different
kind of safety.