The Waves Engulf

• Chris Joju, Grade 10, Girraween High School -
• Poetry
• 2018

Excellence Award in the 'Horizon of Dreams 2018' competition

The waves approach, transient but nonetheless, ever present
I find solace in the gentle susurration of the wind
War and turmoil had now become a distant dream but alas, I still lament
Even in the midst of chaos, my hopes and dreams I have yet to rescind
The nostalgic concoction of salt infused with the zephyr which rose in pitch, provoked a gale
A light mist of brine coated my slender frame and threatened to stifle
The pitiless wind whipped the waves into a frenzy and as they swelled, my knuckles grew pale
Recounting the endless conflict, I mused, "all that wanton destruction over something so trifle"?
Dark, ominous clouds gathered overhead akin to an oil spill and heralded the advent of the storm
The fire in my heart was snuffed out as the heavens became stained and the waves engulfed
After an eon, the tempest abated and the waters became placid, yet the horizon yielded no sign of what I seek...a landform
The passing of the storm discouraged the waves yet the winds still rebuffed
At last, land was visible as the gentle waves buffeted the tranquil shore
My soul was burdened with thoughts of ostracisation and my mind swirled with dreams of the burning of an effigy
Once again, the sea breeze ignited memories and I hoped the country would provide me with succour
For I am nothing but a refugee