after it’s over
I loosen my sandal straps.
I didn’t get a chance earlier
and they are tight around my toes.
I gulp the last of my water
and wish I’d brought a snack.
My heartbeat begins to slow
and I soften my breath.
I inhale the night’s brisk air
and it cools my throbbing throat.
The rhythmic sounds of chanting
fade
as I begin the walk towards home.
5 thoughts on "after it’s over"
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Maggie – Great description of “after.” Hearing the chants, I thought often of how throats would feel later. I like the loosening, slowed-down elements you give the poem.
I do like the beginning stanza. It personalizes the rest of the poem.
“I didn’t get a chance earlier” captures so much, especially the second time around.
I really enjoyed this. So often at the end we think about what we might have done better- loosened our sandals, brought a snack. Nice work.
great writing. great imagery. love that you chose the aftermath as a means of reflection.