Stick Figures

Stick Figures

For Pippa

Small burst of water, then the quick
bob, as if an otter steadying itself
against the current. Then we'd rush over
the mist-wet wood to the other side

of the bridge, wait as for some visitation.
Why was yours always the first
to breach the shadow-mark? You said
there was a knack to choosing

the right stick: a perfect shape and weight.
Then there's the time we watched
and a startled gull, inland for winter,
shot from underneath and lit the air.

*

You're making tea and talking too much.
I hover in the livingroom and you
in the kitchen, turning the kettle on.
Presumably you take your time.

How long has it been since our games?
Your laugh puts me in mind of a bird
surprised by its own lightness.
I tiptoe up beside you.

You've had your family over recently.
I guess your younger brother draws you
in stick figures for accuracy's sake.