BETWEEN FLAGS

Between flags

The ocean pledges

To control  its waves

Between flags

The sea concurs

to limit its rage

Between flags

A lifeguard

stands by

as if on  stage

Between flags

Between  flags

of yellow 

Only strong swimmers
ought to dip

Between flags

The weak

on medium hazards

sea water sip

Between  flags

A lifeguard
now

tightens his grip

and loosens
his zip

Between  flags

Outside  flags

There is 
insurmountable
danger

Outside  flags

strong  currents
caress the bathers

Outside  flags
The rough sea brags

Of foams which gag
and breast which sag

and bodies dragged

Outside flags

Between  flags

of Red 

Red over Red
The lifeguard 
enters rough waters
with much dread

And  flips  tides
of life or death
From dry to wet

Between flags

Between flags

safely planted
on shore

The wind blows purple

and microbes soar

It does not take a lifeguard
To tell for sure
That bathers ought not
to explore

the colours of  purple
Between flags

Between  flags
Floats
aren't just limited

For all  inflatables 
are prohibited

but naive swimmers
won't be inhibited
By ocean's nag

With daring  buoyancy
They contend
Between orange flags

These flags  all are
A Life guard 's tool
And those 
who fail to
read them
Are but fools

                        At the ocean’s mercy

                        At the tide’s fancy

                        At the wind’s whim

                        At the life guard's epiphany

Are fools

Who dare swim

Between flags

Copyright©2019 by Camille Caliscia Patrick