Hey everyone, since I haven't written in a while, I figured I would post another poem I wrote. Every Wednesday we have a poetry workshop in which we bring a piece we're working on, or one pertaining to the guidelines our tutor has given us, and critique it. This week, one of the titles was "learning to swim" so, seeing as I've got upwards of 15 years of experience with swimming, most of which was spent either recovering from being injured or being injured, I though that would be perfect for me. What I wanted to achieve through the structure is to show a struggle, but end with success. Also, my best friend and fellow author Sonja had surgery today so I thought this might resonate with her as well. So, here it is. Enjoy
Learning to Swim
Easing in gently,
the water hugs my legs,
nerves making ripples.
Six months I've waited,
patiently.
You'll be good as new,
they said.
I'm stiff. I feel old.
Chest deep,
arms afloat,
I let go.
Sinking to the bottom,
the water takes me.
I look up.
Bend at the knees
and push
hard.
Breaking the surface with ease.
Moment of truth.
I gasp,
surprised,
to feel no pain.
I look at my scars,
evidence of a battle,
a war won.
I again must learn to swim.
-EJG
Learning to Swim
Easing in gently,
the water hugs my legs,
nerves making ripples.
Six months I've waited,
patiently.
You'll be good as new,
they said.
I'm stiff. I feel old.
Chest deep,
arms afloat,
I let go.
Sinking to the bottom,
the water takes me.
I look up.
Bend at the knees
and push
hard.
Breaking the surface with ease.
Moment of truth.
I gasp,
surprised,
to feel no pain.
I look at my scars,
evidence of a battle,
a war won.
I again must learn to swim.
-EJG