Redwood
Poetry

The Meaning of Swim

Maya Dang

October 2024
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In the realm of sports, swimming often plays second fiddle,
overshadowed by soccer’s power and basketball’s dribble, 
yet, as its story runs in the watery depths of time, 
a melody unfamiliar to some, but uniquely mine. 

The azure depths of the pool, inviting and clear, 
a sanctuary from the sun’s relentless leer, 
often connecting with the weary, parched from the heat,
a haven of relaxation in a world fraught with exhaustion. 

I know the sensation of diving through the water’s chill, 
the sharp tang of chlorine, the diving board’s thrill, 
on scorching summer days, the relentless sun, 
I seek solace in the depths of the pool, a cooling liquid dream. 

Hearing the roar of the crowd, passion profound, 
jubilant crowds like a harmony,
wanting to be part of the symphony, 
longing to be part of a cheer, 
but remaining still silently following, 

At swim meets, camaraderie blooms, records fall, 
cheers ring out, echoing through the vast area, 
witnessing countless dives, each a chance to shine, 
and now it’s my chance, screams of joy filling the air,
the azure depths driving me in. 

Yet being vulnerable, wary of chlorine and pH excess, 
a pungent reminder of the pool’s harshness, 
the shrill cry of the whistle awakens the spirit of swimmers, 
as they plunge into the water, fearless in their flight.
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