on Terra Australis Incognita

against goldleaf dawn
outline of eucalyptus
far from cleansing fire

oh eucalyptus tree
hard, tall, standing proud
subtle mnemonic

criminals in boats
unwanted, unloved, orphans
England's castaways

Lutruwita bleached
Aboriginal nations
murdered, chained, leashed, fenced

your tree transported
decorates English gardens
tear-soaked canopy
 
~

n.b. The profile of the eucalyptus tree crown (seen here in England), is distinctive, its roots unforgettable.

CLP 09/02/2026