On the River

Morning, the river belongs to the geese Who congregate on the bank Poke about in the grass Run, take flight, and land on the water Heave their wings to skim the surface Noisy and honking, splashing As they inhabit their domain Afternoon, the river belongs to the people Who gather as families and friends Lying on the grass Swing out on a rope and land in the river Or climb in from the bank’s edge Shouting and calling, splashing As the inhabit their domain