On a Block Island Beach

On a Block Island Beach

The beach won't give up

its light easily.

The sea-grass tinges gold.

Waves foam bright white.

The couple in the car

are already in darkness.

He bullies.

She shrieks.

How can they be here

and yet not be here?

I stroll the shore

for as long as there

are shiny details to it.

Even when it's totally black,

I'll see bright what I hear.

That couple's fight

is long ago loosed from me.

I keep their peace

until they ask for it.

—John Grey