P.N.D

One fell off the fragile bridge;

others froze in horror.

Far below them, howling winds

and glimpse of foaming water.

Four young women shared a house,

partied, shrieked with laughter.

All got married, scattered wide.

Three go on without her.

Driving rain, on clothes and skin;

you feel the thin bridge shudder.

The baby knows there’s something wrong,

looks round and sees no mother.

Three come home. All night they weep;

why did no one save her?

while each, in fear, bears step by step

a child across the water.