Mill Bay
HMS Barking sank in Mill Bay on
March 14th 1964 during a force 6 gale.
After its collapse, the body
was left exposed, rusting
in the bay, photographed
and inspected by people
who pass. The occasional
moan as water gushed in
and out.
Twice daily it is bathed
by the sea. Sand settles
like blankets. Sequins
of limpets, barnacles.
Salt cuts lacework as
the stiff body is eroded rib
by rib.
It is sewn into the rocks.
Embroidered.
Decorated.
Buried.
Until the bay
just breathes
ship.
And,
without knowing why,
a woman picnicking here
dreams
of sailing away.