after Lushootseed storyteller Martha Lamont

Back then
when all the animals were people
Crow counted herself fancyfolk
and far too fine
even to consider such hopefuls
as Raccoon
Bufflehead or Mallard
Bear or Deer
she had only
words of scorn to heap on them
little paint-up face
she called Raccoon

To marry one of her own
rank and wealth
that is where her seagull slaves
are taking her
a troop of chatterers
they set her down
in her canoe
laden with dainties
herring and smelt
for the upcoming feast

Her mind is fixed on Shell
whose wealth is evident
see how he glitters
in his iridescent clothes
yes he's the one
a willing groom
look how he's laid
a path of priceless blankets
from the water's edge
up to his parents' house
above the shore
a bridal path to where
the wedding will take place
where he and she will sing
together dance together
as if in trance around the fire
until they're wed
and tired guests can head
for home at last