BIODIVERSITY

PAUL WILLIS

How to Get There

​

Just below the cascade, a sycamore

has fallen

across the plunge pool,

resting an even six inches above the foam.

 

It is still rooted, scree from the cliff

having filled in the gap behind,

and fresh shoots wave their flags

of winter leaves along its length.

 

To cross the log you must weave

through a young forest, the vegetable

equivalent of shops and houses

piled thick upon London Bridge.

 

Here there is stubborn life for sale,

new and eternal homes,

hands of mottled green and brown

to reach you to the other side.

 

—from Visiting Home (Pecan Grove Press, 2008)

 

​