Whale Dreams

I

Wet basalt back of whale passing one hundred feet
from the deck, makes me call you to run come from
front gate to the sea side to watch this great token
made manifest in the glassy March sea.

I kneel down on these rocks astonished at the sight
of Jonah’s container that carried him against his will
to warn people he thought less worthy than a hurry-
come-up castor oil tree.

II

I had gone to visit the seals pups in the far haul-out
when a pack of marauding orcas came wilding.
I bawled out Your name and pleaded the blood
and the gangster orcas plunged.

III

Two silent men in dark suits and felt hats launch
A crepe draped empty coffin out on to the waves.
We turn and head towards shore. Thankful.
Currently breasting the waves.

All a swim in the same sea with Jonah’s whale.