Breezing Up by Winslow Homer
interpreted by anna alexander

A single sail,
Patched, worn.
Still strong enough to hold wind.
Taking the little boat by the hand,
Away from land.

Morning sun lays golden shawls of light
Across the shoulders of the children there.
In the boat, this day's catch
Supper for the evening meal.

Father intent, keeping the boat on an even keel.
Three boys, no...
I think one must be a girl,
Stretched out, dreaming dreams,
Her feet encased with shoes,
Her brothers disdain to wear.
Their feet cooling in the morning air.

Did they grow up? Leave the sea behind?
Landlocked, in office or suburban home?
If they did, do they ever dream
Of this perfect day, the sea serene?
The sky awash with clouds and light
A seagull's soaring flight ?
This forever day
When they were young?

9/17/96
Anna Alexander
© all rights reserved

See the painting
Breezing Up by Winslow Homer @
The National Gallery of Art Washington, D. C.



You can also take an two different online tour of 81 Winslow Homer works @ the Gallery.  The tour includes a biography of the artist and afterworks.  
The short version of Winslow Homer collection
The lush and more in-depth (best enjoyed full-screen)
Winslow Homer in the National Gallery of Art

Photos on this page are courtesy of The National Gallery of Art

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