Little leaf fading, 
green-bleeding
xylem, phloem
from veiny cells. 
From stem to tip 
pinnate venation 
of a fine web – 
leaf-lines mirror 
crowning purple 
plum tree.
So long life map. 
Dried shoot 
floating, 
sun-crackled, 
cast-off 
and dropping dull
into still water.
Little leaf-boat,
edges curling: 
withered,
jagged shape
sinking.

Little mama waning,
skin crusting
soured fluids
from leaky hull. 
From head to toe
apoptosis
of a fine frame,
laugh-lines hailing
a living once
loved.
So long soul-shell. 
Blue rivers 
trickling,
time-worn,
finished
and tipping left
into harbour.
Little kind ship, 
body drooping: 
wasted,
bony shape
crumbling.