Kraken

For Alice Angus


A likeness borne in silk, rich contours
of canvas giving life to the seascape.
Behold the colossal octopus, a beast of lore,
an upturned ship within its clutches.

The kraken's eyes, islands of onyx
surrounded by glistening white,
are enthralled by the catch.
A multitude of writhing arms
idly entwine their neighbours.

Look closely, between threads.
Imagine the groan of drowning timber,
rendered apart, blended with deep depths,
or a lone sailor, scrabbling from the sea,
to tell his survivor's tale.