word spread quickly
of a neighbours downed fence
a great storm -
bigger than we'd ever known
had them running for the breakers
in cúil chaorach
it took great pleasure
upending forgotten toys,
beach furniture
and garden tools -
untouched since last spring
excitement grew
between spikes in the mobile network
conifers unfurled their anxiety,
quiescent silt stirred
wind shrieked with a voice of death
as new fathers rummaged for candles
cursing their ill-preparedness
