Gargoyle 19
cover photos by Richard Peabody (2) and Brian Sheridan
publication date 2/8/1982

Learning an Old Language

David Sheridan

Yes,
I know I took a vow.
But I’m retired so I
Fish for Pink Salmon
And practice my Great
Horned owl’s call and
When it rains, Maeve
Lays with me. Afterward
She teaches me our mother tongue-
Fonn: land, earth, delight, musical tune
Rughedh: a promonotory, a cape, a blush.