Jennifer Mcmahon

For everyone out there who has the good sense to be a little afraid when swimming in deep, dark water. You tell yourself there’s nothing down there, but there is. There always is

In the water, dark and deep

where she waits, fast asleep

All alone, pale and cold,

don’t wake her up, or she’ll catch hold

Her soothing voice, so soft and low

is the last thing you’ll ever know

Four simple words whispered in your ear,

a gentle wind only you can hear:

Come swimming with me

—Rhyme recited by children in Brandenburg, Vermont, circa 1900