Well Pump

My heart has become like

an old well pump

that flips on in fits and starts

wheezing and coughing;

When it’s on, though

the water gushes clean

clear and mineral-rich

I taste the weight of the Earth

across my thirsty tongue;

But when it’s off

silence can seem

overwhelming

and I hold my breath

afraid it will never 

kick back on

again.

Reviews

[R.E. Ray]

I think as we age, especially men, we see such things more mechanical, something that's old, broken, rusty. It's a cold thing to describe the heart as an "old well pump" but it works here and it's another original work. I particularly like the connection to "the weight the Earth," and how everything goes back to nature, even us and our feelings. Another good write, JR.

[JR]

Thanks man. I actually have an old well pump, and this all came to me hearing it click on and off. It does seem to fit into our perspective as we get older, mechanical parts slowing and breaking. Appreciate the read, as always.