34-37 Degrees South - 2023

III
Some came here with intent to plant the Empire’s flag.
Some came to dig for gold or build the Snowy scheme;
to find some space to breathe, or for adventure’s sake.
Their children’s children mine and farm on land that knew
another people’s feet; or squat in cities where
the track is harder to remember than forget.
But love was never bound by right, doled out to each
according to desert. And country’s polyamorous;
she will embrace all those who know and care for her
and hold all kinds of lover in her many-chambered heart.
10