Oh South Carolina beach
as far as my lonely heart can reach
into the ocean of days
that float away in blue.

Oh South Carolina coast
resurrect me from the ghost
I have become in morning light
and hug me near to you throughout the dreadful night.

Oh South Carolina tide
I will follow as you abide
on windy seas so briskly torn
on balmy crests sunlight adorned.

Oh South Carolina sea
I ride you gingerly
into a fragile peace
from sorrow’s savage lease.

Linda Joy Walder

*Reprinted from An Anthology of South Carolina Poets, Free Verse Press, 2025