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www.wrightsvillebeachmagazine.com WBM
Ode to the
Cape Fear River
By Brooks Preik
In Southport many years ago,
when I was yet a child,
the river sang its song to me,
a song both sweet and wild.
A song that called to me back then,
with invitation clear, “Come swim
within my waters fresh, escape the
sun’s hot sear.”
On summer nights
I walked its shores,
my mother’s hand on mine,
and felt its cooling breezes flow,
the feeling was divine.
Though calm, serene and beautiful,
the river has its moods,
the fury of a hurricane,
the ravage left by floods.
Peace always follows every storm,
there follows, too, the shine
of silv’ry moonlight on its waves,
all turmoil left behind.
The river’s timeless waters soothe
my soul, refresh my day.
I rest beside its tranquil banks,
and sorrow goes away.
The river’s there for everyone,
though often I’m quite sure.
its charm is meant for me alone,
a bond that will endure.
When I am gone, the river still
will sing its haunting song,
and generations yet unborn,
with joy will sing along.
Joshua Curry