The Beach at Night

I was inspired to write this poem because in the summer, when I go to Cape Cod, my family and our family friends have a campfire at the ocean at nighttime. I really enjoy this tradition because I love the beach and roasting marshmallows. It’s a fun time for everyone because the adults can socialize and the kids run down by the ocean and dart away from the waves that chase us up shore. The atmosphere is calm, warm, and joyful. These times inspired this poem that reminds me of summer.

 “The Beach at Night”

by Katie O’Hara

I love the beach

at night

dark waves rumble

and race in towards shore

they slap the sandy beach

then quickly retreat

back to sea

the seaweed-scented air

hugs me tightly

We’re huddled around

a blazing campfire

seated on large woolen blankets

extending gangly swords of wood

towards the heat

to cook the

sweet, sugary prey

and make s’mores

A cool sea breeze

brushes right by

whoosh!

but the fire’s heat

engulfs me.

Everyone is in good spirits

stories and conversations

pass around the circle

the waves seem to roar

with laughter

and the fire cackles

with delight.

The beach at night is my favorite

the sunset sky is like an 

artist’s painting,

a combination of

watercolors.

A searing orange sun

surrounded by

a blend of

reds, corals,

salmon pink, fuchsia,

and deep purple.

It’s time to leave

as I get up

I feel the soft sand

draining through my toes

a bucket of water

kills the old fire

the sun has now sunk below the horizon

and the waves rush in

once more

like they’re waving farewell

until next year.