Cartography

long have I poured over sundry maps and strange

detailing the way to take in the old forgotten tales

which way to the crone in the forests whom

you do a good turn for who in turn makes it happen

that the kingdom goes to you for a well answered riddle

men had died for;or been lost at sea

for the pealing bell that echoes that echoes the wishing well

echo location dipped in gold, all the answers falling like snow

for the bread and cheese that can never grow low

the best there is, as rations go

despite months, even years of meandering.

not at any auction would I give them up

the singing kettle or the loving cup

the mound in the grass that will lead into

the fairy chambers, the healing of the World.

mary angela douglas 25 march 2021