For Lena

Effortless strangers along the beach, Hoards of people, so strange to me. Buoyed islands and mast sails that spreading distance of light, Embers on rod trails to grey shadows night. Clock face and churchyard a step from the shore, Man made extrusions, a chilling curtail. Treading the slipway the life raft is rung, For lime wash on corners, a plea from the heart. Rolling and spitting, wave after wave, Jacket so heavy need light from above. Shifting the life raft once more in the pull Of motions and currents that dare and divine. A flashlight, a whistle, a rocket whose flare Bring closer together men and women who care.