A Poem for the New Year from Dan Hines

“Walking on Water” Acrylic on Paper, DS

New Island

the first day
of a new year

i’ve cleared breakers
heard in darkness
about to beach my boat

each year of life
a voyage to
discover a new island
make a home
again

i’ve left many behind
each island
leading to another

i can never stay

risky oceanic impulse
to sail
find año nuevo

Dan HInes   Jan. 1, 2024