Ode to Sundarbans

.

The curved claws on your paws

and the snap of your jaws

gives a thrill to time spent in your arms.

 .

The depth of the green in your tidal routine,

and the bright birds we’ve seen,

give grace to this place and the feeling of space.

 .

Criss-cross patterns of roots and dark, poisonous fruits,

the grey mud on our boots,

gives the sense and the sound and the feeling of truth.

 .

In the haunting dawn mist I’m aware what I’ll miss

is the salt of your kiss.

.