Drifting beside western coasts
of uncovered continents,
metallic leviathans stretch
their sunken limbs.
Hinged jaws spitting
sulphurous seeds that
linger beneath the ether;
clouds condensing to
float through the air
with steady, rhythmic slur.
Hidden from view these
artificial barrels of rain
line up in formation;
secreted shiptracks
that sway the rising heat
with convoluted patterns
of tempestuous intent.
Shadows forming out of sight,
as overheard unblinking eyes
peel back this salted shroud:
a stark glimpse
behind unsettled scenes.
Shiptracks off the coast of the Iberian Peninsula, taken using the Suomi NPP satellite’s VIIRS instrument (Image Credit: NOAA).
This poem is inspired by recent research, which has identified how satellites can be used to better monitor the emissions from ships and the effect
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