When I was in my younger years I sailed
The coastlines of Dalmatia. Isles appeared
In bloom along the billows where sporadic
Birds hung in intent hunger over prey.
Those algae-slippery isles were glittering
Emeralds in gold sunlight. When the high
Tide and the night nullified them, sails
Listed to leeward, farther out to sea,
To flee their perfidy. Today my kingdom
Is this grand No Man's land. The harbor heights
Blaze on for others; I to dark broad seas
Am thrust by an indomitable spirit,
By the excruciating love of life.