Orange River

Orange River


Ripples in widening rings
signal that manatees are here,
hidden in the dun-colored water,
this narrow tributary
running to the Caloosahatchee.
No thunderous waves,
no sonorous surf beats here,
but gentle music.
The river otter's song,
rustle of a tree fern,
a soft breath on my shoulder.
Like a Shaker hymn,
simple gifts
depth-sounding my soul.


Prompt Subject: The Great Outdoors - Pick Only ONE: Forest/Woods, Desert, Ocean, Mountain, River, Island, Polar Ice Cap, Prairie/Grassland
Word(s) to use: music
Word(s) not to use: beauty, beautiful, nature, natural, peaceful, serene
Other requirements/restrictions: This is descriptive poetry; must be twelve (12) lines minimum. (Yes, I'm going easy for now )