Rollercoaster (for Grandpa)

By Clara Blair

You knew how it would be.
Grandma didn't like it,
But you said, "Aw, Mamie -
I'll hold on to her,"
And paid the man our fares.

Strapped in tight, your arm around me,
I thought we'd never reach the top
Of that first climb.
Then DOWN!
                Breathless,
                               Eyes stinging,
                                              Too scared to scream!

We seemed to bounce, then slow,
Then slowly climb again,
As narrow tracks reached up,
Past where pigeons flew.
And I, white-knuckled, teeth clenched,
Turned to look up at you.

You laughed and squeezed my shoulders.
Grandpa, you looked so young and new,
As we climbed
High over Coney Island's smells and noise,
Up with the pigeons!
Leaving Grandma on the ground,
We flew!

"Do you want to stay on for another ride, Dearie?"
Yes, Grandpa! Yes!

© 2002 Clara Blair