#boem

 “The mother that I never knew,” the Japanese poet Issa once wrote, “Every time I see the ocean./ Every time.” That sums up my longing, as well. I ache to return.

I keep hoping someone will bequeath me a submarine, or perhaps a tall masted sailing ship … a practical gift if running off to sea is on your “To Do” list. 

I also daydream about turning an abandoned oil platform into some sort of art colony and invite all my friends along. There’s a charming old rust bucket called Platform Holly off the coast of Santa Barbara that I would more than be willing to consider. According to one article it would cost the state over $350 million to break down and physically remove the platform. Look at the money I’m save the government! Plus, legend has it that Holly, seen at night from the beach at Isla Vista, inspired Jim Morrison (of The Doors fame) to write, The Crystal Ship. This is an older poem but it also sums up my longings, as well:

To: Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)

You have forsaken oil platforms dotting

the coast. Locals call them eyesores. I call

them a queer Muse. Sadly, they're bewitching,

ghostly and waiting for the perfect squall

to rift under. Instead, let one live out

its long golden years as a shrine, an art

commune, a haven for all us devout,

seafaring witches. We'll bring all our hearts

and Craft to this sanctum. Eh? No, listen:

it's like H.D.'s Sea Garden –– we'll transform

flotsam into lore. We'll live without sin

or oil spills. We'll turn other's pollution

into the realm of maritime brainstorms

St Petersburg, Russia @ Beggi Boem