sara Etgen-Baker Poet Free verse

Notes About The Poem

image from poetess' personal scrapbook

Dad rarely caught fish, especially not a big one.  But on this summer day in 1983, he caught a huge fish.  Oh, the story he told about 'catching the Big One.' 

Poem submitted to "Go Fish" Poetry Contest, Suzette Richards, sponsor 8/24/2025

THE FISHERMAN

THE FISHERMAN 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
in the peace and quiet
where the tall Texas pines grow,
there is Dad standing alone
casting his line 
time after time
not in search of fish
just a way to unwind.

as the water swirls up to his waist
with each cast 
his worries disappear
washed by the water~
he reels in one last time
and though his hook is empty
he finds peace on his line

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Line Gauthier August 24, 2025 at 5:37 PM Lovely tribute to your dad, Sara ~ beautiful sara Etgen-Baker August 24, 2025 at 5:41 PM thank you for your kind words, Line...wishing you a splendid week ahead

Zyrool Gifford August 24, 2025 at 3:47 AM Hello Sara, this is a touchingly beautiful tribute to your Dad. That was a great catch. Have a wonderful day and a great new week ahead. sara Etgen-Baker August 24, 2025 at 5:41 PM ahh, thank you, Zyrool, for your visit and your thoughtful words. Wishing you a splendid week as well!

Sotto Poet August 24, 2025 at 3:15 AM This is a splendor that ignites the depths of the soul. What a heartfelt homage to your father, and to the tranquility he discovered while casting his line into the still waters. Best wishes for the contest sara Etgen-Baker August 24, 2025 at 5:40 PM thank you for dropping by, Sotto, and for your thoughtful comments. I spent many days with my dad either at the shore of the lake or on his boat...somehow I felt secure knowing he was at peace. have a great week ahead, Texas hugs, Sara

Gershon Wolf August 23, 2025 at 9:22 PM This is so profoundly lovely. Such a wonderful tribute to your dad and to the peace he found casting his line. Kudos, Gershon sara Etgen-Baker August 24, 2025 at 2:48 AM thank you, Gershon, for your kind comments. Appreciate you and your visits..have a splendid Sunday