Reflected stars ripple
as outstretched arms steadily stir the water

Back and forth, back and forth

I plot to continue treading
until my limbs give out
and I slowly sink into the darkness below

Back and forth, back and forth

Perhaps later my bloated carcass
will wash up on shore
A grisly discovery, but
at least one with a possibility of wondering

Back and forth, back and forth

I tip my head back, allowing
my hair to caress the surface
Squinting up into the silent night
I wonder, myself.

Back and forth.

Back and forth.