The assignment
Write a solstice poem the includes at least five of these words: luminous, bedazzling, sunny, saturated, radiant, incandescent, bright.
I spent the 2015 Solstice in the Newport Levee shopping area, raising funds for Alzheimer's research by writing instant poems. It was also Father's Day. I recreate the experience through the poetry assignment from my sister, given above.
Solstice on the Newport Levee
by Joy Dickerson
Wind whips the American flag into a bedazzling patriotism
Bright blue sky backdrops the Cincy cityscape.
Paving bricks wobble with waves of radiant heat,
I am saturated with sound--an African drummer, satellite radio,
Even explosions, as the Reds across the river
Set off a blast for each home run.
Saris of incandescent silk, too-tight tank tops
Geometric print dresses shimmer by
Shoes in every color of the rainbow
Skin in every color of coffee from black to palest ivory
(The glorious bright sunshine leaves my skin a luminous radiant red.)
The coolest sight of all on this hot day
Is the daddy dates, Daddy dragged toward
Restaurant, shop, aquarium.
Daddies making the ultimate sacrifice
On the day set aside for their honor,
Doing whatever his kid wants him to want to do.
_______
My sister Robin's poem takes us to the pool. Same writing prompt.
Solstice at the Swimming Pool
by Robin Dickerson
The pool is saturated with gentle coolness,Sun bedazzles bright on the blue,Swimmers ambling down through the woods luminous with expectation,Peeking through the fence orange lilies incandescent against the green,The earth radiates warmth.I am saturated with summer.
