I have grown to love this island that ships
pass in the distance so that clouds
and their sails are obscured. Whatever winds
compel the ships are laden with ropes.

The island is inscrutably free of vegetation.
My vision unhindered extends beyond Asia.
Animals I cannot describe cannot be said to prowl;
rather they perform a pavanne on the strand like a carousel.

I have received letters expressing remorse
from acquaintances who rue my isolation;
but there is a bird long thought extinct that soars
above the island and its songs are my inspiration.