Beneath the trees

 

Beneath the trees they lie

Unmarked, unnamed

Unknown strangers

Glance in passing

Would that you heard

Their shattered cry

 

From east and north and south they came

Despised and bound

Across the sea to Rottnest

Heartsick, alone

Never to return

Their fate unfound

 

Beyond the hill, the tourists

Posture and pose

Enjoy the view

Buy souvenirs and lunches

But those who visit here

So few.

 

Windsong and wavesong

Wash over them

Crow and gull and wren

Sing your soothing songs of love

Sheltering trees

Spread arms above

And gentle nightfall cover them.

🅒 Jo Collett 2023

Aboriginal burial ground at Rottnest Island/ Wadjemup  Western Australia, 2023