A PATH MUCH TRAVELLED
Jose and Juanita went up the hill, via the chalk
path which had been worn deep by generations of courting couples in search of
a warm, secluded hollow.
Juanita’s mother watched them, her arms stilled
in soap-suds. Twenty years ago she’d climbed that same path with her boyfriend,
and consequently her dreams of escaping her home town had been shattered. She
returned to her chores, praying that Juanita would be more careful.
Jose’s father, on his boat in the bay, smiled
at remembered passion before returning to his nets, hoping the boy would
remember to use a condom.
...............................................................................................
There are precipitous paths in many places, and this reminded me of one I saw in La Gomera - one of the Canary Islands. That path was a farmer's only access to the road and thence to market, and consisted entirely of steps. It gave me vertigo just looking down from the road!
Thanks to Sandra Crook for the photo, and to Rochelle for hosting Friday Fictioneers on her blog https://rochellewisoff.com/ PS Happy Anniversary, Rochelle and Jan W-F.
The cycle repeats. Or maybe not
ReplyDeletePregnancy avoidance is easier these days, but hot blood can still make one forget!
DeleteAw, it doesn't sound like Mum and Dad are too regretful! The staircase to market intrigued me - I can't image the farmer was able to bring a huge quantity of wares!
ReplyDeleteThere were fruit trees, vegetables, pigs and chickens, but it made me dizzy just looking down the slope!
DeleteYou can only hope. And prepare for the worst.
ReplyDeleteMe, Sandra. Just so you know I came by. :)
DeleteThanks x
DeleteIn 20 years time, Jose and Juanita may be having similar thoughts!
ReplyDeleteIt's certainly possible!
DeleteAs parents, they just have to let them go and live theiur lives, but can't help but hope they don't make the same mistakes!
ReplyDeleteLA Gomera, is a fascinating island, thanking you for recalling it to my mind
ReplyDeleteIt is wonderful, though driving on those roads is a challenge.
DeleteHistory has a habit of repeating itself.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately!
DeleteDear Liz,
ReplyDeleteOne can only hope Jose and Juanita break the cycle, but I don't know if I hold out much hope.
Shalom,
Rochelle
Hot Spanish blood takes over!
DeleteThe young have a hard time imagining that their parents were ever young and full of passion. Or that anything will come of their own passion.
ReplyDeleteAnd if their parents display any passion in their presence they are deeply embarrassed!
DeleteI like the feeling of continuity here. Also, that the parents are still watching out for their offspring in an unobtrusive way.
ReplyDeleteThank you. jade.
DeleteWell done, Liz.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bill.
Delete