This shell
reminds me
of a tiny gold rose.

Shaped like
a broken
spiral staircase,

Outside
it feels like
a soft young chestnut,

Inside it shines
like a sunset
over Nantucket Sound.

If I entered
I’d see drops
of saltwater

Arranged
like letters
on an ancient scroll.

Holding my shell
I feel
like I’m climbing

The tallest
tower
in the world.