Cotillion

When the moon is full,

horseshoe crabs gather for mating

in the shallows of the inlet.

Huge primeval ones,

crusted with horny barnacles,

trailing ribbons of seaweed,

join with young ones half their size.

As the spring moon rises

over the salt marsh,

whispers of living creatures

murmur in the swaying reeds.

Though too dark for human eyes,

I picture a watery cotillion

where wise old warriors

pass on their ancient lineage.

Fewer come as years go by,

but still a remnant every spring,

at the full moon’s tide,

return to dance their watery drill.

© Peggy Latham, 2011

Photo: Horseshoe crab with barnacles, http://horseshoe-crabs.com/horseshoe-crab-pictures/