East Neuk in the Rain ©

Depressed weather as I visit the Neuk
New homes mushrooming since my last visit
First homes and pipe dreams for some
Under the grey sky the river cleanses
Carries the ferry to port
Bringing visitors and returning exiles
Who glimpse land then gather bags
Ready to land safely on Fife’s shores

Without sun’s blessing
Soft landscape is needed
I am not let down
Hedgerows throw up
Sunshine yellow
Sharp green
Puddles reflect red umbrellas
And a child’s Wellingtons

Next time perhaps my mental picture
Of blue harbour white houses
The familiar postcard scene
Will say hello
But today in the drizzle
I am rewarded just the same
The beggar’s mantle fringed golden
Is seen in all its splendour