Arriving at the terminal hall of the western docks
In Helsinki, I entered into limbo. I thought
I’d hop on the early boat to Tallinn, but flocks
Of Finns, obviously on the razzle, had already bought
Up every ticket. Weirdly, they milled around
With empty suitcases and holdalls, rather as though
For a stay that did not require clothes. I found
A place just before departure. So
Lucky, it seemed – until I boarded what
Turned out to be a ship of fools, packed to the gunwhales
With merrymakers drinking like there was no tomorrow. Blunder-
ing outside, I saw in the distance a dazzling spot
Amidst the morning’s night: a swan, circling over the funnels
Of a vessel – also full, but fathoms under.
In Helsinki, I entered into limbo. I thought
I’d hop on the early boat to Tallinn, but flocks
Of Finns, obviously on the razzle, had already bought
Up every ticket. Weirdly, they milled around
With empty suitcases and holdalls, rather as though
For a stay that did not require clothes. I found
A place just before departure. So
Lucky, it seemed – until I boarded what
Turned out to be a ship of fools, packed to the gunwhales
With merrymakers drinking like there was no tomorrow. Blunder-
ing outside, I saw in the distance a dazzling spot
Amidst the morning’s night: a swan, circling over the funnels
Of a vessel – also full, but fathoms under.
(28.3.97)
