avatarMatt Ray

Summary

"Wake Watching" is a reflective poem by Matt Ray that uses the metaphor of a boat's wake to explore the concept of life's journey and the act of leaving the past behind.

Abstract

The poem "Wake Watching" by Matt Ray captures the essence of nautical reflection, drawing a parallel between the wake of a sailboat and one's life experiences. The author, while gazing at the boat's trail, contemplates how the sea holds all the events that have passed, just as the wake fades into the distance. The poem suggests that, like the water stabilized by the boat, our past experiences shape us, yet they eventually settle into a smooth, flat surface as we move forward. Ray emphasizes that looking back at the angles of one's wake can guide one's future course, implying that reflecting on life's journey can provide insight and direction. The poem concludes with an invitation to connect with the author through his Linktree or explore more of his work, including other poetic pieces that reflect on nature and minimalism.

Opinions

  • The author views the wake as a tangible record of the boat's journey, akin to the memories and experiences that make up one's life.
  • There is a sense of tranquility and acceptance in leaving the past behind, as the wake naturally dissipates into the vastness of the sea.
  • The poem conveys a belief in the value of introspection, suggesting that understanding one's past can inform and improve one's present and future.
  • The author seems to find beauty and meaning in the simplicity of sailing and nature, as indicated by the invitation to connect with him through his sailing and minimalistic lifestyle.
  • Matt Ray appears to embrace a minimalistic philosophy, as evidenced by his other works that explore living simply and finding richness in experiences rather than possessions.
Image by daxwise from Pixabay

Wake Watching

A poem about watching the wake behind your sailboat

Looking from the cockpit The thought occurred to me Everything that’s happened I leave behind in the sea

Just like the wake of the boat Trailing behind for miles I’ve left the places I’ve been to Far beyond the isles

The water in the wake Has passed under the boat Stabilized by keel and hull Now smooth and flat it floats

Checking angles of your wake Can sometimes tell your course The same with life through looking back Can help you live from source

© Matt Ray 2021

Want to connect? You can find me somewhere on this beautiful planet, usually on a sailboat or with my hands in the soil and my eyes gazing up at the clouds. Or you could find me on Linktree.

For more of my work, here are a few examples.

Poetry
Poem
Sailing
Oceans
Creativity
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