My grandfather is a country
My grandfather is a country.
Rough terrain. Etched upon his hands
A map. Rivers and roads and feet above sea level,
Contours in the whorls of his fingertips.
He has carved a path across his palm.
I walk my fingers through its valley,
Sensing the mountains all around –
The untamed mountains,
Volcanic, bronchial.
© Vicky Arthurs 2015 / 2017