Inspired by La Playa del Sol by Timothy Rees
Layla Baker (youth – age 14)
Take your sister to the sea Let her play in the water, She said. Make her laugh. It’s been a long time since either of us heard her laugh. She hasn’t laughed since… Well. I wouldn’t talk to her about that if I were you. If she even talks to you at all. Just let her laugh. Let her play Like she used to all the time Splash her with the water just like he used to do. Make her feel like you’ll make everything okay. I’m trying to make everything okay. But sometimes… I think the ocean will help her. Overcome everything. Get past everything. Accept everything. It’s a little too much for a girl her age to handle, I think. Do you remember When he used to take you two to the beach? He would bring a basket and fill it with cherry pie and cookies.
I used to be annoyed with him Because he would never pack anything healthy for you two. It’s funny, the things I used to get angry at him for. I shouldn’t have said that. Now you’re sad too. I’m sorry. Take your sister to the sea And dance and sing as loud as you want And splash in the water and she’ll see That you can be happy again That you should be happy again. Say, are you wearing those overalls From when your father was a boy? You’ve grown so much… you look just like him. I see more of him in you… What about me? I should go? No, no. I think it’s better if it’s just you two. Like it used to be. Just please make her laugh. I miss her laugh so much. That’s all I need To be happier. Take your sister to the sea. u
EKPHRASIS 2022 | 3
