Amphitrite’s Sacrifice


The gurgling breath of Amphitrite
rises in aqua summons calling
captains to steer their ships
to ride the nipple waves of her breasts.

She gather’s her children
into the liar’s pool at her feet
rocking them with deception
to prepare for net and hook.

Amphitrite raises her sacrifice
to sunlit eyes peering into the drink.
Algae tears pour from her eyes
as she does what she must.
Human arms respond, wrestling
finned bodies from her arms.

There is nothing she can do
as life that has its beginning
must also meet its end.
Her hope is that man
will not take all her children
born in the salty delivery room
of the turquoise blue sea.

©Susie Clevenger 2012

Comments

Wander said…
to ride the nipple waves of her breasts
this is one discriptive line, Intresting take on the prompt, I liked it
anthonynorth said…
Some excellent lines in this one.
Brian Miller said…
cant imagine watching all your children being taken on or large groups at a time...and yeah, nipple waves is def a fresh take...smiles.
Laurie Kolp said…
Lovely, Susie... and I'm with Wander- that first stanza is amazing!
Trellissimo said…
All about a water birth, then...
Teresa said…
Love the imagery in this poem.
Tess Kincaid said…
"...nipple waves of her breasts"...brilliantly beautiful...
Maggie said…
Oh, it's so sad. Beautifully written.
Susie Clevenger said…
Thanks Brian..The statue being female brought the thought marine birth to me
Brother Ollie said…
clever line after clever line - well crafted
Susan Anderson said…
Beautiful and stirring.

=)
Ed Pilolla said…
man will take everything he can carry and much more. she is right to be concerned.
Carrie Van Horn said…
Susie this is a new favorite of yours for me.....simply breathtaking!!!
D Miller said…
subtle way to address the rape of our seas
Nicely done and thanks for the comment on my Magpie
Susie Clevenger said…
Ed...I know. It is so sad how man will take so much and not give back
Susie Clevenger said…
Thanks D and you are welcome