Tide Out
The sail that leans on the light of dusk
Gives subtle shade to the port side
Lady Spider works hard in the cool shadow
Knitting at the rail corners
She bounces about her web
Forming it into the perfect triangle
The window sits still
Fathomless shades of grey and green churn
Over and over foamy lips spray the air with
A violent kiss
Kisses
More kisses than
My eye can count
The ancient war between
Obsession and responsibility
Will never finish
Spider on boats
A Northern winter wind
A broken heart at sea
Waiting for a fresh light
That follows a storm
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I found this poem in my folder from 2012. Riding a Ferry was a regular part of my life years back. Approaching the winter months I am reminded of those days, going to work or taking the ferry to visit friends, family, or going on a trek to Costco, when the weather was stormin’. I LOVED it! The ferry captains and crew are amazing! When the boat is rolling and you get knocked out of a booth but you’re still above water–that is a good day.
This evening I’m feeling this spider that inspired the poem. It was building a web outside in the window frame of a Washington State Ferry. A bit of a surprise to discover. That takes serious vision and risk.
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video credits at sites
Lightening and ferry boat ~ Friday Harbor San Juan Islands Wa
Saved by Irene Pomerinke
shannon p. laws 