A Rainbow Sign

I just don't think that

this is what it's supposed to feel like,

shaking my big one to break the stream

and make a pool for moving my tools,

for they only weigh half as much

when moved under water.

I emerged in the morning, covered in blood and fine acid sand

and decided to remain partially submerged a little while longer.

Itching for more exercise,

and cooled not by water but by air,

I spent the afternoon collecting sea shells,

and found each one heavily carved

with the numbers of pretty village girls

offering to take tourists to the ultimate level.

A spring and summer service they offer.

I meant to call one, with a headline ready on my lips,

but a gull would dive down wheeling and screaming

each time I tried to dial.

One can fool the animals,

but must forgive this wild, beautiful country.

Source: Illustrated Games of Patience (The Song Cave, 2015)