the swimmer

the swimmer

By E Kraft

asian face but not an asian surname

in a world full of superficial labels 

crammed behind cardboard even though unboxable

then tossed to sea carelessly, indifferently

just an early swimmer bobbing against the tides

still dazed by undertows of expectations stereotypes

forced underground again and again left breathless, suffocating

perpetually gasping, grasping frantically

trying to preserve roots but forge own paths

against waves of traditions, boundaries, desires of a confused heart

over time, the salty sway nips at the box pieces

the currents lap over the body floating unafraid  

at last the ocean sleeps determination leads the way