Hartland Bridge

Pebbles spray a New Brunswick
bridge, cars hurrying
places to go, late already
wooden structure a history
of craftsmanship where children
wheel bicycles, doll carriages
and dogs chasing.
Listen to thumping tires
in their race over this river, once
pure for healthy gulps
laying on belly, the drinks soothing.

Now gasoline fumes and oil
dribble out defiance
at the freshness of this night
a brocade of studded stars
highlight moon’s yawn, reflecting
river’s coiling mist. The evening
an invitation for sleepy ducks
settling on river’s surface
silent swoops capturing rest in the
shadows of ancient memories.

© Richard L. Provencher
Website: www.wsprog.com/rp/