Where Waves Collide - By: Jashvihaa Uthayakumar

a step out into the breeze,

chilly but also free.

where the drowned and the soft sands meet,

the first steps, so bitter yet sweet.

engulfed in the seashells’ song,

i find myself asking, “is this where i belong?”

the waves seem to speak, nearing so riled,

an urge pulling stronger, irresistible but wild.

my heartbeat follows, picking its pace.

the sea swirls around me, in a loving embrace.

a mirror of myself, how i become so restless,

drowning in something that leaves me so breathless.

the ocean’s kiss, a mark on the sand,

the memories forever, being held on the strand.

ripples and swells across the whole tide,

two waves in the ocean are meant to collide.

Please give a detailed explanation about the meaning and main idea of this poem.

this poem is a metaphorical representation of the feeling of love using the ocean and its waves. just like the bittersweet feeling of being on the seashore, with the breeze swaying by, making you cold, yet the soft sand between your feet, making you feel at home, the concept of love provides a similar feeling, in which you feel like resisting, but it is so tempting for you to do so.

Please explain your writing and thought process regarding this poem.

the beach is one of my favourite places; it is such a homely and warm setting, where i can instantly feel at peace, no matter the time of my life. to me, love is also a beautiful emotion; yes, it can be hated, but it also pulls you back for more. thinking about how even though the beach is so calm, the waves can still be wild and do harm, led to me to think that it was so often similar to love. you can feel safe and happy, but can also be left in a moment that is the complete opposite. despite the dark side, we focus on the good side of the beach, and is a reminder to focus on the good side of love too.

Why did you choose to write this poem?

i chose to write this poem to express one of the beauties in life, through the use of something that we already see as beautiful in society versus something that we do not see in the same way. the contrast between them adds a unique touch, and so beautifully explains the sensations.

Do you have any tips or anything to share with the youth writers who may be reading this?

never give up. even if you feel like you've hit a block or your work isn't worth it, trust me, it is. keep staying strong and keep writing :)