Sunset Over the Bay

It was as if all vengeance 
was set to touch down here 
upon the blazing waters
of the bay. The air turning
fiery red and a big sun burning 
through into the sealed
catacombs of the head.

But in truth all was passing
in an earthly quiet save
for the solitary cry of a gull
riding the last light home 
to roost and the sound
of water lapping the pier.
In another time everything
was cauterized 
by a smothering fear
and found no voice.
Demons carried 
a white hot cross.
The colors of a setting sun
gave to eyes a palette 
to paint the furnaces of hell.

Now - here in this light
and in these distances spanning
the bay's wide waters, 
small boats move 
and leave fiery wakes 
upon the mind that linger
for a while 
then heal to a reflective still.
The evening settles back,
as old men do,
into a deepening silence.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Turner Avatar
March 27, 2023 at 7:29 AM
Obviously a place where thoughts run deep and the soul finds peace. Another fine write, Paul.
Willason Avatar
March 27, 2023 at 2:04 PM
Rivers, bays, beaches always stimulate something in me....go to places for healing. Thankyou Daniel for yr comments.
Lawless Avatar
March 27, 2023 at 5:18 AM
those last three lines offer solace amid the confusion..nicely done.
Willason Avatar
March 27, 2023 at 2:02 PM
Thanks John, appreciate yr comments and giving the poem some time. Valued.
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