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




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