Island Bike Ride

Summary

"Island Bike Ride" is a free verse poem that captures the sensory experiences and reflections of a biker navigating the roads of an island.

Abstract

The poem "Island Bike Ride" evokes the sensory experience of cycling on an island, with the speaker describing the contrast of cool air under the hot sun, the various scents encountered, and the thrill of speed on winding roads. The speaker reflects on the changes to the island's roads, from safer dirt paths to a paved road filled with potholes, symbolizing a lost sense of security. The poem humorously refers to those who have avoided bike accidents as having the "Island Tattoo," suggesting an unspoken camaraderie among riders. The speaker acknowledges the unpredictability of the ride, with animals, people, and debris creating obstacles, and concludes with a realization of maturity and the decision to enjoy the island at a slower pace.

Opinions

The speaker finds humor in the unexpected smells, including marijuana, which brings a smile despite not being to their taste.
The poem conveys a sense of nostalgia and critique towards the island's road development, implying that progress has not necessarily led to improvement.
The speaker expresses a love for the adrenaline rush of speed but also a cautious approach to riding, always ready to brake for the unexpected.
There is a clear appreciation for the island's beauty and a respect for the dangers that come with riding too fast, especially when life and safety are at stake.
The poem suggests that the speaker has learned to balance the thrill of speed with the wisdom of slowing down to savor life, a sentiment echoed in the closing lines.

Island Bike Ride

A Free Verse Poem Trappings on the Roads of an Island

Photo by Michael Louie Unsplash

To feel the cooling air as I ride under the hot sun, A steady speed to take it all in and Enjoy the citrus smells. The smell of; is that weed? It’s not my flavour, Still, it brings a smile to my face. Pungent smells of uncollected rubbish, I prefer the weed.

Reminiscing how the dusty dirt red rocky roads Had now been paved over With a road full of potholes, It was safer back then As a false sense of security Comes with cracked clumsily laid concrete Luring confident speed from the rider As they are thrown off their Machines by the deepening potholes From years of disrepair and rain.

“Island Tattoo” is the given name In jest by those who Have managed to avoid this fate, So far.

I feel the need for speed It’s a buzz on these winding roads, My foot and hand are Always near the break As the unexpected always crops up To free you from your Speeding machine.

Monkeys, dogs, cats and rubbish, Even humans throw themselves In the way as if to test you. Ha! Pay attention!

As the ring tightens and The heart runs with a shocking Palpitation. Thank feck that was not a kid! I think I will it slow down a bit.

Oh; no, I had my fun, I’m just going to take in the view And remind myself I’m no longer a kid Anymore. life is better With the wind in my hair Not my hair in the road, At an Islands steady pace.

Thank you for reading. J.

POETRY

Island Bike Ride