Jolly Ranchers – Hazel Beuker

They’re tossed to us

where we float in the pool.

My arms and legs are sore,

but I am happy.

They taste of brightness

of radiation and glee.

I like the blue ones the most,

the way they stick to my teeth.

Their flavor mixes with the chlorine

and I get water in my eyes.

But I eat them anyways

Because it means swim practice is done.

And suddenly,

Summer is over.

I don’t eat them anymore,

they’re too sugary for me now.

But the blue is still my favorite flavor,

and the taste of chlorine stays on my tongue.