Mark de Klerk

Dreams of an African silkworm

In the dark, we wait alone–
no fewer stars in our universe,
yet dawn seems out of reach.

Yesterday, sunshine at our backs,
we spun our new homes–
silk shadows where once we feasted.

Today, we see no light nor day–
we dream of crinkled wings unfurling,
kaleidoscopic colours transcending.

But tomorrow, high above the fynbos flowers,
we will chase butterflies,
and know that we too belong in paradise.

Mark de Klerk is a dual British and South African citizen currently living in Cape Town. He is a husband and father of three adopted daughters who provide much of the inspiration for his writing. He has pieces published or forthcoming in Prosetrics, Blithe Spirit, AVBOB Poetry, Little Old Lady Comedy and Kudu Journal.