Bombay Beach

sounds alluring, doesn’t it?

not sure that’s the perfect word although

it does have some sort of spell on me….

what is it about bombay beach??

sure, it’s dilapidated structures hold

silenced hints of stomped-on dreams

squished by the realities of floods and financial ruin,

now years into their premature involuntary graves,

only persistent whispers remaining

of their once vibrant existence.

and though i’m captured by the intrigue

of those long-buried eerie relics of life,

they’re only one piece of the puzzle

that gives this place it’s hauntingly unique flavor.

the backdrop of glowing white sand beaches,

courtesy of cycle after cycle of the sacrificed lives

of fish and crustaceans,

intensified by the layers of encrusted salt,

lit by the relentless rays of desert sun,

perched over iridescent blue saltwater

and surrounded by misty mountain ranges,

contributes its share of drama

to this ethereal landscape.

and then there are the birds –

the constant, over-riding factor

in this strange juxtaposition of elements.

their persistent presence echos life

in the face of decay,

their valiant cries speak of hope in the face of hopelessness

in such a powerful way that it can’t be denied.

you really have to see it to believe it!

salton sea, 3/3/10