In Light of Canada

My status in this fine country is as a visitor, although I currently live here and love its scale and beauty.

In Light of Canada 

 

I will stay a while longer here

Bathed in light of latitude

Reflected from sea smoked harbour, iridescent river

Forest hugged with the sweet smell of maple

City satiated by the V8 hum, my urban staple

 

I will stay a while longer here

For the coyote yelps in midwinter dreams

The ice thundered lakes that still wake me

To an open door with the jeer of a Jay and

Squirrel shouts signalling the new day

 

I will stay a while longer here

Until the call of my first home takes me away

Where my parents lie, turf bound

And my children now plant their dreams

Family tree growing strong, at least it seems

 

I will stay a while longer here

Though the gathered rooks start to call

And the church bats wait for me to fall

Back in love with the place I first saw

As a 50’s baby that left my mother raw

 

I will stay a while longer here

Before a return to roots in muddied lanes

Sheep stolen hills and blackberry hedge

Where the sun tends to be more shy

Causing the stone bound peacocks cry

 

I will stay a while longer here

But when I leave I leave as a memory thief

Nestled inside me, the travellers pleasure

Light of Canada

This villain’s treasure