Death in Venice

The sand
In sun the sand
And water lapping
Slapping on sand under
Silver water with orange and blue

Dark narrow streets
And streets with high walls
Damp walls and pavement
And damp shadows
Hanging in heavy air
Sickly sweet stench of decay
The harsh and lonely sound
Of fading footsteps round corners

Footprints in sand
Flash of running feet
Dancing voices
Splash of broken water
Silver and living in sunlight

Orange burning and purple
Of dying sun
Quietly yet heart beating
As slow rolling over sand
Comes the heavy dank breath
Of final sunset