Dedicated to the historic carousel located in Playland Park, Rye, N.Y.
Under latticed dome
abides a steed on brass pole-tether
Carnival jewels adorn a saddle of faded leather.
Black Forest songs are performed
by tin men donned in hose
seen at a glance
as I whirl past, round breezes stirring my clothes.
I re-create what age has chased
by riding beside my child.
Joyful smiles emanate
as we prance aloft for miles.
Carousel, I knew not your circular deceptions
causing my eyes to tear from windy reflections.
I/my child, meek and mild,
meshed in imagination
Whirling, urging
our horses toward unknown destinations.
As our ride concludes,
we gratefully pat our steeds
this experience, simple and sweet
is all my child needs
to transform
experiences into memories.
— Ann Chiappetta