The Mermaids' Invitation

Bleary-eyed sailor, we've been watching you
lean on the railing, staring out across
the ever-changing frothy greys and greens

that dip and dance their merry minuets
to Father Neptune's horn. You do not seem
to see the beauty and the joy we find

in our sweet ocean, where the dolphins leap
in happy frolics as we laugh and sing
together – why, there really is no need

to feel down-hearted. Join us! Take the plunge
and say goodbye to drudgery on deck,
shake off those crushing cares, that sadness; drop

that sense of obligation. We are here;
we're waiting for you. Look, our arms are wide -
come, let yourself be borne upon the tide.