Near Parson’s Stairs

Issue SixteenPoetry

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By Rob McKinnon

London, 1 August 1801

 

Warm summer breeze caressing

your young cold wet body,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

Darkness defeating twilight

as you float in the gloomy Thames,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

We find you near Parson’s Stairs

slowly drifting towards Tower Bridge,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

In a cotton gown with white-leaf pattern

and a sprig-netted shawl,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

The pocket you carry      

contains only a glove and white handkerchief,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

Your pretty face has slipped

in this week’s water,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

Your beautiful body has fed fish

but parts have bloated,

Who is missing you tonight?

 

Did you give your other glove

to someone you loved?

Who is missing you tonight?

 

Was that the one who committed the sin

of pushing you in? 

Who is missing you tonight?