Mark A. Forrester

Ascent

As a young man, he helped build shelters along the trail. He and his buddies would hike in, bearing heavy loads of lumber and supplies. Clear a flat area of undergrowth and large stones, lop back intrusive branches. Working together, they quickly erected a simple lean-to. In the evening, they relaxed, joking about sore muscles, scrapes and bruises. They passed a flask or a joint around the campfire, breathing easy.

moving as one:
a mountain breeze,
the hawk’s wings

Opening the envelope, he studies a dull photograph taken by his old friend’s daughter (or was it a granddaughter?). One of the shelters they constructed, weathered and worn, but still standing. Rubbing his legs slowly, he remembers the long, steep climb.

mountain air
tremorless, the hawk’s wings
in flight

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About the Author

Mark Forrester has taught English at the University of Maryland for more than 25 years. He is a high school dropout, a former chef, and a husband, father, and grandfather.