Stone Shadows

At the deepest part of the stream,

Young silver-green fish dart

Into the dark parts

Of piled-up rocks -

A rubble edge of a new world. 

Their white fins flap in the finding -

Sunken stones are waiting shadows, 

A shelter for tiny slippery souls.

But their side eyes re-emerge

Looking older.

In the sleek space of black,

A pause in the dip and rise -

Safety has changed colour.

They are cautious leaving these

Stone shadows now. 

Minute lights flicker on and off 

Under the water -

Decisions in small silk bodies.

LJ Ireton

2023