TO THE HARBOURMASTER (thanks Frank) 

I am still here, anchored in the bay. 

I wanted to be sure you could reach me. 

I should have left long ago 

But I cannot. 

In storms and sunsets,  

with the dirty washings of the tide, 

I am unable to understand the vanity which holds me, 

And the rudder in my hand, looking for ways to leave.

I have seen balmy days, shadowy mists,

And sunlit sparkling waters.

To you I offer my hull; 

And the tattered rigging of my will;

The terrible channels where the wind

Drives me hard from my anchor.

I have lived balmy days, shadowy mists,

Daily tides: the mud, the curlews, swooping screeching gulls;

Boats forever comings and goings.

Yet I trust the sanity of my vessel. 

I hold on.  I am still here. 

Though waves, 

Though endless battering waves, winds and waters 

have kept me from you.