Twilight Carnival - Roller Coaster

[Chris Campbell]

It’s the chunky – clunky - clacky sound of the chain pulling the roller coaster up the track - anticipation and doubt - (Will we make it? Will we make it?). Time stops at the top - joy and fear - gravity (that bandit) tries to steal my stomach; hands up and scream! My heart pounds in its cage as we enter the shadowed valley and I remember Newton’s third law, and the Lord’s Prayer. Into the light, effortlessly, the car goes up again; we round the corner; the wooden trestle groans and complains (as it does every summer), then the track disappears beneath us and I’m an angel floating above my seat; only the metal bar across my chest keeps me from heaven; we fall and I feel the full burden of my corpulence. Now flying to the sun, I am Icarus; my wings melt; I see the ocean swirl beneath me; I rise again, this time not as high - three hills and I’m a bobble-headed doll, nodding in agreement. We come full circle - the fragrance of brake rubber and coconut sunscreen - I take my first breath.

[Alexandra (MoonWillow) DeEsch]

Chris,

Even though I don't know you, your words are amazing! I felt as if I was the person sitting right next to you on this ride! Such Vivid detail kudos to you!!!!

[Scarlett Rose]

i love this so much! I remember when i first read this, i was in complete awe of your excellence Chris :) THIS piece of amazingness right here started our whole Carnival. Go you :)

[Pamila Payne]

I loved the flow of this and the way you really managed to take us with you on the ride. Nice experiential writing. Not sure if experiential is a word...

[Harry]

And this is the one that started it all! Chris you pegged the whole experience, warm enough for ice cream now?

[Laurita]

Agreeing with Tess about the Icarus line. Incredible. At the end of this I fet I had been on that ride, a bobblehead - the perfect description.

[JMac]

Chris,
Everything about this piece is terrific and makes one feel in the moment. I loved the angel reference and the only thing keeping her from heaven is the metal bar. Just fantastic. What's a carnival without a roller coaster?

[Tess Dickenson]

"I am Icarus"... how incredible.

[Daniel]

Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, white wooden rollercoaster. Loved that ride. Thanks for the rememory

[Karles]

loved this!
I just went to an amusement park last week, and you most defintitely captured the rollercoaster thrill!
great job.
:)