Once

• Joyce Lin, Grade 6, Korowa Anglican Girls School
• Poetry
• 2021

Excellence Award in the 'Play On Words 2021' competition

Once, I walked across the meadow, full of flowers,
Watching the busy animals work for hours.
The sun showered me with light,
The light so bright that it weakened my sight.
Now I walk across the meadow, dull and lifeless,
Watching the flowers wither, once priceless.
The sun seemed to pierce through my heart,
As I watched the last birds depart.
Once, I swam with the fish, happily in the pond,
Watching the birds fly to what’s beyond.
The sun burrowed me in its soothing light,
And filled my heart with endless delight.
Now, I stand on the edge of the pond, turbid and dead,
Watching the fish die, in dread.
The setting sun seemed to swallow me alive,
As I thought I will never revive.