Lakeside

There is nothing but warmth in the shimmering distortions of air.
The wind rustles by unnoticed, pierced by echoing cries.
A forest of algae waves to an unseen tempo as
shadows nearby lurk beneath a serenity of coolness.

A flash of white glides onto a wayward branch,
captured with oil on canvas:
the whisper of brushing wings, the arch of a slender neck,
and two twig legs positioned in a perfectly symmetrical triangle.

Blinding refractions decorate the water, a rainbow fallen adrift.
Scaly backs break the surface, watching with beady eyes.
A cacophony of flapping wings and cracking branches.
No more flashes of life between leaves.
Even the water breathes more cautiously.
O lake, where are your creatures now?