A swallow
crosses the border
without being spotted
by the border guards.
Two clouds
make a dash
for it
but are caught
in a tourist photograph
as they are half-way
across.
A leaf
waltzes over
(but without a passport)
is obliged to
waltz on
right back over
A
as the wind changes
its mind.
An ant
is forced back
by an imaginary line
that exists
only in men’s minds
& doesn’t register
on the satellite photo
taken just that second.
the satellite now
the other side
of the world
the moon on its left
stars thinking of
nothing
but themselves.
Meanwhile
back on earth
the border guard
(the border shimmers in the heat
begins to melt....sticks to our footsteps)
gazes at my photo
gazes at my self
gazes
for it seems
ages.
Hacks, spits: hits
an insect
on the left hand side
of its head
by mistake
‘though he pretends
he meant it.
His gold tooth
gleams.
The insect
stops in its tracks
thinks: “Wot de fu**! ”
Pauses: accesses
the situation
& designs to risk it
& go on.
It goes on.
“You, look...”
(he gobs)
...nothing like you! ”
He informs
my photograph.
I feel I am
eavesdropping in on
their conversation.
“I haven’t been
my self
for a long long
time now! ”
I admit.
“Shit! I got
a nut! ”
He turns & spits.
(God! I wish he wouldn’t keep on doing that!)
His gold tooth
gleams.
A dribble of brown
tobacco spit glistens on his chin.
He waves me on
not wanting
the bother
or to bother.
And so
I cross
the border.
Brilliant work Donall! I really enjoyed this. HG: -) xx
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Welcome Home, Donall...and may the vacation be perfect, the homecoming dancing and singing beyond all you dreamed of...LYN