lifeguarding

From deep withunder riptide's grip I felt some part of me give up resigning to a frigid future far from sun-soaked surf above and shark-shaped sand dunes on the shore

"I know my death now--this is right," shame told my mind to say good night The glass coffin surrounding me - I brought its lid down heavily;
a door four fathoms deep of clarity and as much liquid moonlight

I raised the stakes and fate, she called; (I'd wagered with exceeding gall)

My error was invincibility Tempted beyond capacity by the very cautionary words whose wisdom I must now concede : Danger! Riptide! Do Not Swim! red letters carry me away.

--

As conceit of prowess and nobility carried me thus far below

I die a cautionary tale repeated to children playing jumbo chess on beach towels, but I may not be remembered fondly enough to save a life. These children do not know their own frailty.

Everything I've done in life has led me to this mistake. Never mind the life that I was trying to save. The child is nowhere I can reach him now.

Every inch of fearlessness Instilled in me by parental impulsivity and of fabric on my body will sink with me now.

I just got this swimsuit too. What a waste to die today

--

I blame nature for making me this Icarian way - not ultimately for sending her wave.

The venturing spirit which sets sails Set me to swim against the tide I did this in service of pride

Dare I struggle for surface?