Both of us knew there were falls downstream
as our love boat left the port.
He charmed me with music, coaxed me by saying
the trip would be sweet, if short.

"Carpe Diem," was his mantra then,
my heart was easy to win.
We drifted and dreamed on the lambent stream
as he played on his violin.

We moved at an ever-increasing speed.
He said, "Don't worry, my dear.
The scenery is lush, the sky is still blue.
There’s truly nothing to fear."

So, full of hope, he smiled and he played
as we were swept round a bend.
Before we knew it we were over the edge,
tumbling end over end.

Yes, though we knew there was trouble ahead,
we didn't know its name.
And yes, our love survived the falls,
but nothing is now the same.

--Elaine Parker Akin