Saltwater Solace

This poem was inspired by an Instagram reel featuring the image above. Someone asked if I could write a poem based on it—and I said yes. I didn’t expect the feelings it would bring up: the ocean, loneliness, memory, and ultimately, a quiet sort of healing. It reminded me of a night I once sat by the water with someone who didn’t really see me. And how, in that moment, the sea became more of a companion than they ever were. Writing this helped me process that memory from a different angle—one where I came out whole. If this image speaks to you too, I encourage you to write your own piece. What does it make you feel? ---

Saltwater Solace

I sat with the sea, its voice louder than his, a hymn of salt and silence that knew me better than anyone ever had. Bones bare, but never broken, I became a ghost of who I was— not haunted, but free. The waves didn't ask for my body, only my breath. They didn’t press, didn’t prod, just listened as I dissolved the night into something sacred. He stayed on shore, hungry for skin. I drifted further, cradled by moonlight and the aching calm of choosing myself in the dark. ---

Author's Note

Thank you for reading Saltwater Solace. If this piece resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts—feel free to leave a comment, like the post, or share it with someone who might need it. If you’d like to support my work, you can also subscribe or leave a tip—it truly helps me keep creating poetry and sharing stories like this one. To stay updated on new posts, behind-the-scenes process, and daily reflections, follow me on Instagram @carolina.b.writing. I share more poetry, writing prompts, and thoughts from the heart. Thanks for being here.