Fairy Penguin Parade

(A night on Phillip Island, Australia)

(A night on Phillip Island, Australia)

In complete silence
they march in a file onto the stage
like well-rehearsed kindergarteners
their white-breasted costumes
glitter joyously
under the dim light

Since no flash is allowed
it is hard to tell
from which backstage they emerge –
the boundless ocean
or the dark night

In wobbling steps
without any gesture
or dialogue
they shake water off their bodies
and fill the eyes of the audience
with tears

William Marr

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