Take Me Back

Gate falls. Pulsing red

lights. Tall, white

 poles passing.

Desperate to smell

salty ocean breath

Red, orange and

purple hues

swirl. Listen,

aquatic rythym syncs your breath.

Captured castles await you

Knee deep

can’t reach, crashing,

rushing,

and sucking

stinging eyes, almost lost my suit

Shades of red

skin. Frizzy hair, untamed.

Steamy

five o’ clock shadow.

Heavens flash and rumble,

run for cover

El’s drive-in.

Generations rave.

Fried shrimp,

cole slaw and ketchup

between the bun.

 

Purple awning dawns.

To the pier and back

with mom.

Tiny footprint engrave the tracks.

Gritty toes, a trail of sand,

seashells in the sink.

Hot cocoa melted marshmallows

soothes the lingering chill.