The Whale’s Song - Raphael Block

[Larry Robinson]

The Whale’s Song
    
 
I am the last gray—
the last ocean bottom farmer
beyond lonely,
                           lost,
                                     terrified. 
 
I swim in waters too warm
for my ancestors and kin,
pickings so slim
                                  we starve.
 
We have danced 
in the depths for eons, 
the ocean’s moods and moons 
embedded in our bones 
and mottled skin.
 
I bear her barnacles
                               and
    grief.
 
Our surging into the deep—
that constant churning
kept the planet’s plankton 
balance.
 
How will you live now 
young, foolish species?
 
I am the last gray—
                                    wailing.
 
 
 
	- Raphael Block