IWSG: Memories of "Boy on a Swing"

                                                                     

It's time for another edition of the Insecure Writer's Support Group. Be sure to visit Alex J.  Cavanaugh and the rest of the talented writers who are always willing to lend a helping hand.

This summer I wrote about a local poetry contest where participants were encouraged to write a poem about one of the 28 sculptures in our community. Keeping in the spirit of the story, my editor asked me to join in the fun, so I unofficially waxed poetic.

Mary Block's "Boy on a Swing"

This poem was inspired by Mary Block’s “Boy on a Swing” and was written about a month before we moved from the home where we raised our two boys.

Memories of “Boy on a Swing”

Swing, swing, see the boy swing,

Not one boy, but memories of two it brings.

Afternoons spent frolicking in Sunset Park,

Boys pleading to run and play until dark.

First the baby swing, how quickly time flies,

Push me higher mom up to the sky.

Swings are for babies, parks are for sports,

First T-ball, then soccer, and basketball courts.

Touch football becomes tackle, your nerves are frayed,

‘Til you’re the one who’s being played.

Sleepless nights where can they be?

Soon they’re miles away pledging a fraternity.

Swing, swing, see the boy swing,

Savor the moments and the joy that it brings.

-Julie Kemp Pick

This poem was published July 5, 2017 in DailyNorthShore.com