On the Beach 1838

Swirling smoke & fiery sky
reflects off still waters
late in the day, a picture of serenity
as we comb shallow waters
looking to collect what we find,
the remnants of battle,
defeated soldiers' belongings
left quickly behind, the fear
& haste & saltwater tingeing
everything into a sandy scene
of broken wood pilings & sad canteens.
Tomorrow the distant castle's shadow
will be gone, forgotten in another
chance for possible redemption.
We wander about aimlessly,
scouring, searching,
playing hosts to eclectic items
of untimely reclamation.