The three of us,
with the late afternoon sun
in our hair,
semi-stuck in the reeds,
using paddles to try to turn
that little pedal boat around,
our laughter
catching the ears of teen boys
who came to give us a push—
where did we each end up—
different places,
but still,
the three of us,
nudged by
wind, water, sun,
have memory
of the last golden glint
of rowing together
in a coming-of-age summer,
and the haunting song
of loons on the lake
here and gone.
© 2025 Jennifer Wagner
Jennifer - I loved the song your paddle sings of past memories filled with laughter, sun and fun. Then the nudge of change by wind, water and sun. Sounds like a glorious time.
ReplyDeleteOh this is lovely. You took me right back there with you - a laughter-filled coming of age moment forever golden. Just lovely.
ReplyDeleteOh my that is just delightful, a captured echo...stunning
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful poem reflecting those moments and feelings of growing up - but still, hopefully experiencing joys and fond memories
ReplyDeleteReading your poem was like watching a flashback scene in a movie - one with soft but luminous lighting and sepia tones. Lovely!
ReplyDeleteNice nostalgic write. 👏
ReplyDeleteI love the memories, and then that song of the loon that is so very specific too... wonderful
ReplyDeleteBeautiful summer coming of age memories. I love the haunting song by the loons.
ReplyDeleteSuch a lovely poem replete with nostalgia! Coming of age memories always bring smiles.
ReplyDeleteI love your "coming of age summer" poem! I look back on my teenage summers and draw parallels. Thank you for reminding me, Jennifer.
ReplyDelete