Overseas

between heavy downpours
despite the unwavering breeze
sheltered spots trapped the sun
butterflies spread out their wings
settled on the dripping nettles
soaked up each burst of heat

we walked the island
looked to the mainland
the cloud-streaked Downs
across The Solent’s white horses
followed the shadowed path of showers
along the coast from Portsmouth’s tower
to Chichester’s spire
and Selsey Bill

looking back to Blighty
removed for a few days
to softer air
we slept
infusing memories
for confusing
in future dreams
like the cicada
we heard that Sunday afternoon
not belonging
not out of place

CLP 26/08/2023