kayak

NaPoWriMo challenge: sea shanty.

Sea shanty songs help the sailors to keep an even rhythm while working together, they are usually boisterous songs. An even rhythm is also nice when kayaking. I hope to convey to you the non-urgency and peacefulness that I experience while in my kayak, the meditative calm of paddling. So when you read this poem, sing it in a whisper.

Kayak

Draw the paddle

go slowly now

no need to race

we’ve got all day.

Draw the paddle

go quietly

I see a loon

and now she’s gone.

Draw the paddle

the sky’s so blue

the water’s black

so deep and cool.

Draw the paddle

across the bay

stroke powerfully

aim straight on course.

Draw the paddle

lean left and right

from motor boats

a rocking wake.

Draw the paddle

avoiding rocks

through marsh and weed

and snagging logs.

Draw the paddle

go silently

blue heron hunts

patience and stealth.

Draw the paddle

along side me

let’s rest a while

my love. To life!