James Lee Burke, Author

He captures mangrove swamp.

With bellowing gators.

Lacy white egrets.

Popping sounds of bream breaking surface.

Very special finesse and mood.





Bad guys just keep showing up

From the mottled past of

Detective Dave Robichaux.

Spooked Nam war veteran.

Flashbacks from tunnel warfare.

widowed of a Wife.

Booze tormenting life.

And those who know or suspect

Chinks in his armour.

Never let up.





Cicadas buzzing in every background.

Cajun fiddle somewhere nearby.

Trailer parks for blacks

Often rich with anecdotes , tips

God behind many of his near misses.

He usually finds ways

To demonstrate his thanks.

Jesus, Mary, Joseph.





And a head-busting friend

Clete Purcell

Keeps storming in

Like the Cavalry.

Acts first. Thinks later.