Babble of tongues on the beach,

To my right Italian,
I can listen and the lilt admits me
invisibly into their world.


To my left Greek,
Incomprehensible, a barrier with occasional chinks
where I recognise clues.


Behind me English,
Different accents
Allocating places and prejudices.


You change your accent
as your clothes,
casual to be accepted.


For me you put on your finery.
But which is true?
Which is the real you?


I know your tongue
exploring my mouth
caressing my skin.