The echo catches me as I approach the lake
At first, I’m not sure where it’s coming from or what it might be.
A massive hive of ornery bees
A power drill prepped for duty
A downed power line
A drone, preparing to buzz the tower
All seem unrealistic, or at least misguided
When I round the bend and the buzz assaults my ears, this time up close.
I see a small group of spectators leaning against the rail, looking down at the water. I follow their gaze, and finally spot the source.
It’s a toy.
Specifically, a toy boat. running at the speed of sound. Unleashing a wake five times its size. Blowing by the hushed watchers, it spins, dips, dives along the calm waters of Tay Ho. Putting on a show, and making a fuss, on a day when surely any distraction is welcomed.
The lake is quiet today, few people are about
But because this is Hanoi, there’s still a buzz.
Get Up Eight 
But because this is Hanoi there is still a buzz …. always – what’s not to love about the buzz and this beautiful city
LikeLiked by 1 person
And yes, I did try to say “toyboattoyboattoyboat” fast a dozen times! lol Thanks for writing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the descriptive words you used. My favorite line is “…it spins, dips, dives along the calm waters of Tay Ho. ” It was easy for me to picture the scene in my head. Nice! ~JudyK
LikeLike
What a beautiful poem full of sensory details. Our students worked on a project with their music teacher where they created sounds using instruments or their voice for brief silent nature scenes: A Foley project. I’m now more aware than ever of how sounds magnify a specific emotion or mood in a movie. This project also invited me to be a closer listener when outside. I appreciate this image captured in poetry.
LikeLike
You got me trying to guess what was making that sound. I could visualize that toy boat. I wonder if it was operated by a remote control?
LikeLike
Oh Darren and Jill, Hanoi will miss you! But Hawaii will be so very blessed to have you!
LikeLike