DUEL

I stand on the rail of the ferry looking back

through the rain and wind and time.

I imagine the battle between Spitfire and Messerschmitt

at wave top height.

Who will bring their guns to bear first?

In the tight turns the Spitfire is king

but the 109 climbs so much faster.

Only God would know who is the winner

as both planes fall wounded to the sea.

Who will remember the wartime duel 60years ago?

I’m jerked back to reality as rain runs down my neck.