The Empty River, by Guy Fletcher

She stares into the meandering river
painted azure by the summer sky.
It seems to sparkle with a myriad of gems
as she remembers days gone by
wishing times had never changed
for although everything appears serene
it really is just a tragic scene

sewage contaminating the water
and all the swimmers have disappeared.
She recalls their names and laughter
wiping away a stray tear
viewing ghosts in the tranquil river,
wild swimmers for a while without a care
now in her soul...there is only despair.