Caroline Rothstein
Drowning
Around my lower abdomen,
wrapping around my hips,
hovering on my thighs,
there is an inner-tube,
which inflated over the course
of several months;
it began as an idea, or a
concern rather,
and became a hyperbole
for my emotions.
It is a floating device
to keep me from drowning.
But I am a very strong swimmer
(I used to be a lifeguard),
equipped to bring myself
to shore, or a rescue boat,
or anything concrete and able
to help me stop treading water.
This inner-tube doesn't feel good.
It is obstructing my breath,
and my rest, and limits the depth
with which I can swim - in any
direction, and it is - in and of
itself - perhaps, maybe
the drowning anyhow.
I have been looking for the valve,
to pull the plug,
and let the air deflate.
I am sure that swimming