UNDERTOW

Rolling hills call your name
above the endless tunnel.

Flashing lights warning
of danger, footprints

melt as you look, swirling
down a swirling drain

out to sea. footsteps
underwater, cells multiplying in

overgrown seaweed waving
through water like limp swords

protecting the ocean floor.
Wandering through darkness

you can still hear
echoes of your wishes.

— Joel Barham, Grade 12
Woodinville High School
Woodinville, WA