LEAVINGS
Before the downpour and the flood, this stream was meant
for sparrows as a spa. Now insects bubble
in its yellow scum.
Irresistible the side roads, like this mucky pocket-park
where leaves of Merovingian gold still lurk
like scratch-cards in the mud.
Silver foil’s a metal dagger, trampled down between the roots,
reds and blues of ice-cream wraps
are banners in the grime.
In one soft corner of the wood a plastic bag’s a thin white owl,
puddles flecked in shattered glass a small
and sparkling green.
* Mandy Pannett is a regular contributor to IS&T. She runs an arts cafe, supports local writing groups and
enjoys giving readings and running writing workshops. She has two
poetry collections from Oversteps Books – Bee Purple and Frost Hollow.
Like this a lot; the way what could be depressing detritus takes on its own life and even contributes vivid colours to the scene… Lovely.
Beautifully detailed observation.
Wonderful piece.
beautiful
Many thanks for all the comments – Mandy