My dad was then a hero ...

The high windows framed a blue summer sky - 

The hotel pool was empty save for myself and two long limbed women - 

I swam ten lengths, hardly stirring the water - 

The surface of the pool was quilted with sunlight and shadow - 

The two women climbed out of the pool, water dripping from their bodies - 

I swam one more length, remembering how I'd learned to swim - 

I'd slipped out of my red rubber ring - 

The bright salty sea had held me up - 

My dad was then a hero - 

Bells had rung in the mysterious churches - 

I'd walked proudly on the rocky shore, my thin brown body warmed by the southern sun - 

09.00

Monday 15 August 2016

Langstone Hotel

Hayling Island