Dust-Infused Sunsets

The Saharan dust returns to sprinkle its magic over the skies

The Saharan dust is back. It always returns at the start of hurricane season, delaying the inevitable storms and providing impeccable sunsets. The days are hazy, but dusk becomes otherworldly.

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Saharan dust gathers off the coast,
throwing a blanket over air
already heavy with humidity.

North Africa gathered itself and leapt
into the heavens. The sand rallied
together for strength, preparing
for the five-thousand-mile journey ahead.

What must it feel like to fragment
yourself upon the wind
and end up in a faraway land?

Here on distant shores, the setting sun
glints off the huddled masses, scattering
fiery reds and smoldering oranges
over a canvas of milky skies.

These weary travelers bend the light,
transforming haze into beauty
that beckons the night home.

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WEEKEND POTPOURRI:

• Currently on repeat:

• Some stunning dandelion photography from Sussane Helmert

• Mary Oliver on Walt Whitman

• A(nother) poem:

SUNSET

By Effie Lee Newsome

Since Poets have told of sunset, 
What is left for me to tell?
I can only say that I saw the day
Press crimson lips to the horizon gray, 
And kiss the earth farewell.