unpredictable name

lean on the fence to look

over

a steep drop to the river

tears well as we speak of it openly



to break the cut a pheasant came comely

all collars & spectacles



walked sedately to the edge while

i imagined it may fall or fly

over



he continued head forward

feet unhinged to walk down

that cliff

properly slowly with dignity



astounded i turned

went back to work the worst

of the tremors over



it was such a shocking statement to hear



a hill of loss