A Swallowtail

VICTORIA HELD HER CLOSE

Victoria held her close, a Swallowtail

Its iridescent blue had marked it female

She saw it jitter, falter and refuse to fly

And so created safety, a soft net, sprays of water and green leaves.

A green sheen spread across the spring

“She can’t drink here,” said Victoria.

“It’s not safe, like it was the year before.”

The family spent summers at the park.

This year they brought spring water with them

“Because it’s too hot,” she said, as untapped oil spread silently.

The family circled round the campfire at the lake.

“Maybe we should stay home next year.”

“The river’s almost gone, mud for a Raku kiln.”

Only a trickle from the spring remained

Victoria’s tears reflected sunset for the one she held.

The heat, a risk for forest fires, one spark could set it off.

It faltered, started and then it stayed as

Victoria held her close, a Swallowtail.