Waking, I look first from the window
for the three lights in a row on the island
showing they’re at work on the lobster pond.

There’s a time of night when stars line up
in a row of three too; lofty
companions to Fladda Lighthouse.

Then there are the lighthouses on Colonsay,
and the Garvellachs – smaller stars skating
across the sea’s blank mirror.

Waking from a dark dream, I am fortified
for the day ahead by these nine lights.
Three on land, three aloft and three a-sail.

Night light, star-light, sea bright.
Looking out, I’m reassured by this
constant constellation.

Night Light