The thoughts here were summoned by a trip thirty years ago. My recent trip has me homesick for France and it's not my home.
Homesick Villanelle
How can a gum tree arouse such longing?
Twin eucalyptus wafts cannon nosewards.
In another land, there's no belonging.
Hankering for the familiar, aching.
It's a visceral thing, not in your head.
How can a gum tree arouse such longing?
Irish lips lift but eyes are not smiling.
Plastic mattress protector on your bed.
In another land, there's no belonging.
A cavernous hole inside you yawning.
On Bloomsday you will be offal offered.
Your desire for the familiar, aching.
Unannounced, a sudden sharp craving.
Your Guinness tastes bitter, try wine instead.
In another land, there's no belonging.
Sense of ill placement, utterly wrenching.
You'd give anything to escape this dread.
How can a gum tree arouse such longing?
In another land, there's no belonging.
Bill Wootton
29.10.12
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