treasure
the shell
curls into itself
the rub
of smooth carapace
against rough skin.
it is a spiraled grace
she holds, a splintered beauty
left behind.
there is an echo inside
that falls away.
a pulse in silence.
how perfect to become
this self contained
this ghost of flesh
this living stain
so relentlessly
bleached clean
so this is what
desire leaves behind
a soft luster that shines through
the immense whisper
of tides. it is never enough.
how long you waited
to be discovered
dug up from sand
warmed to the touch
held in these hands
worshiped as treasure
Ken Cathers
Ken Cathers has been published in numerous periodicals,
anthologies and has just released his eighth book of poetry, entitled Home Town
with Impspired Press of England. He has also recently published a chapbook with
broke press in Canada. and has another chapbook, entitled “Legoland Noir”
forthcoming from Block Party Press in Toronto. His work has appeared in publications in
Canada, the United States, Australia, England, Hong Kong, Ireland and
Africa. Most recently it has appeared in numerous periodicals including
Zoetic Press, Wool Gathering Review, The MacGuffin, The Orchard and thewildword.
He lives on Vancouver Island with his family in a small colony of trees.