Cathedral Grove

Deep in ancient forest
redwoods stand sentinel
in mists drifting from the sea.
Rays pierce the emerald veil
creased bark glowing auburn
above the mosaic of moss
where hollow trees lie crumbling.
Birds congregate on branches
a thousand years old
guarding nature's sanctuary.

Below, in a cold stream
she returns to her birthplace.
Her white tail, stripped of scales
scoops into the streambed
where she spawns her troves.
Her consort descends
clouds the water with seed
egg jelly hardening to crystal.
The pair drift dying beneath
a flickering cathedral ceiling
sacrifice complete
eyes fallen still.

Scott Speck
12/28/98