Seven days after the solstice

Seven days after the solstice on these Assynt beaches,
beneath the mighty reach of Canisp, Suilven, Cul Beag, Cul Mor and Stac Polaidh,
the days have been stretched out like an uncoiled phone cable,
and the day-nights are so bright I read at midnight.
Light enters from all sides.

My swim along Loch Druim Suardalain was an afternoon light show –
diagonal beams of yellow shooting down to the peaty silt,
bright stars dancing on the ripples,
and me, light as a silverfish

06/19