Bain de Soleil

6.20.06

Suddenly the smell of suntan oil,

spring break in Florida,

the memory of skin released from

a long Maine winter's cloak.

Now San Tropez

and Bain de Soleil

on an 8 year old's bare chest

as she plays near azure waters.

The scents of sensuality

trigger yearnings larger than this Atlantic

or that Mediterranean.

For the community of friends

during a seasonal bacchanal,

the paternal oversight

on a summer break

and the smoothing hand

that connects one radiant soul to another

under the sun's warming bath.