Here by this coastal city,
built right up against the shore
skyscrapers and ocean coexist
fighting for space against the sky.

Pigeons waddle on the sand,
waves lapping at their feet,
and peck at tins and plastic bags
littered across the beach.

Seagulls and coastal birds squat on
pavements, pruning their feathers.
And stare at the cars whizzing past,
while exhaust fumes fill the air.

My mind a flutter,
I stand on the promenade
searching for a break from
revving cars and flashing signs.

As I stare out for a moment
at the deep blue of the ocean
a cape gannet swoops down
and briefly strokes the waves.

In this city of convenience
and every form of entertainment
it is still the silhouette of
a single white bird
               Swooping down
                          to catch a fish

That leaves me mesmerized.

©Anneshiningstar2020
04/09/20