u/JW_Ham

Here I stand on darkened shore,

The timeless din of ocean's roar;

The mournful chorus of the gulls,

A ceaseless dirge for sun-bleached hulls.

 

The desperate tide laps at my feet,

In rhythmic throes it strains to reach,

Its fading mark, laid hours past;

Of countless toils, as though its last.

 

I stand in place, though scornful squalls,

With stinging sand and spray in thrall,

Betray the beaches spiteful plea

I take a step and set it free.

 

For once the sun caressed these sands,

I shaped this beach with youthful hands;

The turquoise tide content to yield,

Yet keen to claim what I may build.

 

These wilting thoughts persist alone,

As pallid moon lights timeworn stones

That mock my restive fear of truth,

Like doleful tributes to misspent youth.