Crossing the Channel

by Larry Chamberlin   Dec 31, 2020


Waves crest ahead, low and sullen,
but past the breakers the turbulent sea
is considerably more agitated.

The prow dives, rises and dives again
as swells lift the craft and drop away,
while the canvas flaps dangerously
with too much slack for power.

The mast draws pendulum eights
in the darkening sky making idiocy
ever more apparent in the transit
to her shore - still, he continues.

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Latest Comments

  • 3 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    A fine observation, Larry. Congratulations on your win!

  • 3 years ago

    by Larry Chamberlin

    Thanks for the comments! Michael, more as observed description than simile. Time slows in sickness. No, Andrea, not intended.

  • 3 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    I'm not sure about its meaning, but I sure do feel seasick! Also, the term, 'pendulum eight'? I searched You Tube and came up with a simulation where 4 pendulums are released just nano seconds apart, after swinging synchronous for a short time, they then create a chaotic behaviour of their own. Not sure if you meant this term as a simile?

    • 3 years ago

      by Ben Pickard

      I know that eight is a sign of eternity and this poem is in the love category.

  • 3 years ago

    by Maple Tree

    Larry,
    why do I get the feeling this poem is a metaphoric piece about Trump ?... ha.

    Truly a beautiful poem :-)

  • 3 years ago

    by Xaque

    The writer brought me into a place where I felt next to this sailor working and making mistakes in a precarious ocean. I especially loved the lines "The prow dives, rises and dives again / as swells lift the craft and drop away" (gripping!) and "in the darkening sky making idiocy / ever more apparent in the transit" (this line stands out at me). Great read.

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