Connie Pachecho Poet Free verse

Mahem Mayday Machiavellian

Killick Poetry Contest
Craig Cornish

The weight of his dog on his mind
There were no makeups, makeovers
… there was a makeshift as death was calling
One sacrifice that could save his family
Out of reach, out of breath, out of gas
The boat rocked with the crashing waves
With the regular anchor broken
He said his Hail Marys and passed

The rocky shoreline begged for prayer
It was low tide in the most figurative way
As the white crest of waves fought the jagged rocks
Father, mother, and three kids kneeled at the altar
As the family pet that stood vigilant earlier
... now gone along with a lifetime of tears
About 100 yards from doom, the dog came to rest
Seagulls flying above are disappointed

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Connie Pachecho September 7, 2025 at 11:56 PM In this poem, there are a few lines I like to toot-the first and last line, the first line is obvious (image, word play), and in the last line, the seagulls are willing the boat to crash, shattering into a thousand pieces so they can have their buffet. When the boat comes to rest, the seagulls are disappointed. The fifth line describing the disabled boat--out of reach, out of breath, out of gas makes for an interesting/descriptive narrative.

Reason A. Poteet September 7, 2025 at 5:11 AM What a title! What an emotional piece; pets are indeed members of the family. My inlaws just put down a 14 year old dachshund with tears but fond memories. Congratulations, Connie, on your write, and also your placement. Connie Pachecho September 7, 2025 at 11:35 PM Reason A. Poteet, thank you for the visit, congratulations, and insights. It's much appreciated.

Rowena Velasco August 7, 2025 at 6:59 PM Powerful and haunting, Connie. The imagery pulls me right into the storm, the loss, and the raw emotion of the moment. It’s heartbreaking, yet beautifully told. Connie Pachecho August 7, 2025 at 8:26 PM Rowena, thank you. You left a cup of tea for me, which I'll savor.