The Trickster of Plum Island

 The waves approach my footsteps like a pup,
 Covert but playful, always moving in
 With fearless leaps, then just as fast
 Reversing that encounter with a spin
 Of snout, a wag of tail, and then a jog
 Around itself until it rushes past
 The undertow, collects another swell
 Of confidence, and rides the breaking surf
 Again, repeating all in parallel.
 But when at last it licks you with its vast
 Infinity, you know you're on the turf
 Of that coyote, trickster of this beach,
 Inviting you to play with mysteries
 Beyond the sweeping shorelines of your reach.


copyright 2001 Gregory Perry