The Narrows

for Jeff Blanc (and his crew)

The river’s strong current pulls me,

engulfs me, corrals me towards the Narrows.

I hear the thunder in the gorge, I feel the surge.

I know what anger and beauty and power

is around the corner of the granite sentinels.

Luring. Teasing. Intriguing.

Bring it on.

I accept your rules.

Cruel, one-sided, pompous.

Today, you abdicate and I dictate my reign.

I’m slammed against the canyon walls.

I challenge all.

The rapids mock me.

The rocks block me but I roll headlong into them.

The laughing granite whips me,

lashes me and spits in my face.

I confront destiny.

I spear myself into that gut,

spill it all and, finally,

reach the calm water.

Look back,

look back and breathe in

the sweet breath of conquest.

September 26, 2021