(i) initiation
deep indigo earth flavoured ochre
varnished soft black skin on coarse
organic sandstone. spear and boomerang
stencils accompany the array of
body parts in the story. coals carried
from main camp are placed on dry
eucalypt leaves, concealing gidyea
burners at the foundation. hunting parties
return with spoils and offer invaluable
admonition to the children. knowledge
which will no doubt be needed during
their upcoming initiation ceremony.
apology and appreciation rituals begin.
carcasses are skinned and marinated
by flame. fresh burning flesh tempts
the spirits that walk here. children eat
first. boys serve men. boys will soon
be men. men will soon be boys…again.
(ii) harmony
she cuts her teeth on the shadow
of a weeping willow. hot dry
winds blow across the western plain
engulfing fresh carcasses. a ceremony
commences. children pay their respect
through dance. women through song.
clever old men capture a sound
of the didgeridoo and clap stick.
simple exchange of gifts. tribute to
the sacrifice. eternally grateful. Bones
tend to the fire. flame channels the spirit.
a young girl bears witness to the cycle.
(iii) natures terror
old spirit woman interoperates the breeze
for the seeds; it only blows from there in
times of distress – let this be a warning.
anxious fauna have commenced migration
to peaks of fortune; oblivious while resting on
heaven’s pillow – light headed, the air is thin.
acute senses provide warning of the turbulent
hysteria approaching; old woman apprehends
the message stick – their skates pierce the ice.
time is a prison, the breeze a catapult but
the walls hold strong; there is no escaping
the invading army – no prisoners, no spoils.
