ISLAND STORM

Reflections

2011

The compliant tree bent to the left
to accommodate the incessant wind
arms reached out left
in sympathy with the flow
but two limbs kept to the right
strident and firm
sticking to their tune
until angry wind
turned
twisted them up and round
forced them into line
but just as quick
they again pointed to the wind
insistent and proud
twisting in the violent tide
fighting each incoming wave
were they right or wrong?
Do you go with the flow
or lead with your chin
and say no, I must wrestle with the wind
to rely on our backs prostrate
or twist and turn back to face the wind
or rollover and quietly comply?