Oceanic
Miami, FL
2018, Senior, Poetry & Spoken Word
Water fills the gaps
in the earth’s crust,
expanding
over each unfilled
crevice of land.
The sea was always meant
to overcome
the russet soil
that had settled above it,
and now it has done so.
Cascading waters
flood the ground
and
unparalleled
torrents of water
push
steadily against
the roofs of homes,
resulting
in the swift sudden collapse
of cement walls breaking
at the final touch
of cerulean silk
reclaiming the earth.
Bodies of water
lift floorboards,
carrying away pieces
of humanity —
misplaced bobby pin
wooden spoon,
bristled toothbrush,
school photo,
copper penny.
Reflection
Reflection
This poem emphasizes the impact of climate change on the rising sea levels all around the world. Through the poem’s utilization of distinct and explicit movements, the reader can figuratively feel oceanic movements described as the poem progresses, falling into the steadiness and unsteadiness of the ocean and its growing expanse over the earth as is seen in the poem. This poem also uses images of humanity that will be forgotten and are slowly being forgotten due to climate change and its rising sea levels. In conclusion, if the sea level continues to rise, humanity can be lost and more of the earth can be consumed by water.