The moon’s so bright I can’t
sleep. The cracks between
clouds fracture the white beams
across grey green bush and
cliff. The wind grows stronger
and the tired, dry forest begs for rest.
The night air fast and hot,
small animals disperse fleet and fearful
throughout the hills, perceiving
fiery precedent.
I imagine tarns
surrounded by falling ash.
I imagine sleep,
where only sleep can go.
Afraid,
I imagine
everything covered with snow.
Some of Tasmania’s ancient heritage forests are currently under threat by bushfires started by dry lightning. See Luke Tscharke’s stunning photography of the type of forest which is at at risk and/or already burning.
© 2019 rosie schriever
