My cousin gives me an elaborate 
explanation on tides 
based on connections to 
full and new moon (supposedly larger ‘spring’ tides 
when sun and moon and Earth are in a line)
as well as half moon (supposedly ‘neap’ tides
when the moon and sun
are at right angles
in relation to the Earth.)

It is a logical explanation.
There are websites that say the same.

But when I observe the reality,
again and again
I see different factors
at work, at least
here on Whadjuk Country—
in Perth.

Here, a peak north or peak south moon 
(the moon highest or lowest in the sky)
corresponds to higher highs
and lower low tides.
While a mid-sky moon
corresponds
to mid or mild tidal ranges,
compact,
often leading to two highs or lows in a day.

Some explanations are tempting
in their generality and application.
But only those reached
through the particular
have any validity.