Challenging Poetry

Great-grandpa's chair

creak-thump, creak-thump,
no rockers here,
a green painted chair
on the porch, where
an old man holds a baby
and rocks back—creak,
then thump back
onto four feet in
broken rhythm.

creak-thump, creak-thump.
you're safe, he promises,
let your mama sleep
let your daddy sleep.
close your eyes.
cuddle in. I won't let you fall.
your nightmares are shadows and mist.

creak-thump, creak-thump,
in his arms,
baby settles,
eyes wide,
quiet, heavier,
eyes blinking,
melting closer,
eyes shut.
asleep.

line count: 25
prompt: rock