At the Park

 

Great sticks in hand

we marched along

in lines as straight as roads

heading to the forest

where trees stand tall in rows

 

A sudden halt

I ground my stick

look back way o’er my shoulder

he follows,  s l o w

stick trailing now

behind my little brother

 

“Come on!” I cry

to speed him up

one last green stretch to cover

not knowing what the forest holds

it’s best we stayed together

 

He caught up fast

stick raised up now

and pointed like a sword

quietly we crept along

eyes peeled as we moved forward

 

tip-toe

 

tip-toe

 

tip-toe

 

tip –

 

We stop again

feet poised and still

and listen to the breeze

it brings the sounds of something

that lives within these trees

 

We feel it getting closer

hot breath and heavy steps

sniffing those who trespass

growling

then he leapt!

 

The fury of the dragon

was felt in flames of red

firing from his toothy mouth

smoke swirling round his head

 

We squeal as terror finds us

deep in this tree-lined forest

swords waving ‘round

as high-pitched cries

and beating wings surround us

 

Running hard

we stumble t’wards

the lit end of the path

an exit from the danger

a dragon’s angry wrath

 

Feet flying now

we cross the grass

and flop onto the mat

relieved, and breathing hard

we laugh … should we go back?

 

© Kristina Hoy

 

About the poet

Previously a full-time high school Science teacher, I now spend most of my time with my two young children. My poems are usually based on nature, written with the intent to encourage kids to explore, learn and connect with the outside world.

 www.sandcastlesandskies.blogspot.com.au