The Journey
Amber Thane
It would take two hours to reach Dunn’s River Falls.
Jamaica circa 2010, early morning, my cousins packed together like sardines in the backseat.
A twelve passenger rental bus, green coconuts roll under the seats like tumbleweeds.
The crinkling sound of St. Mary’s plantain chips, the loud hiss of a bottle of Ting lemon soda.
The soft blow of the air conditioner cools my tanned neck and ears.
Outside the window, locals sell jackfruit and naseberries from hand painted stands,
Rasta men in their large colorful hats walk along the roadside.
The radio pounds reggae beats, rhythmic drums and base guitar.
The driver taps his steering wheel in sync with the percussion.
Deep voices speak of yesteryear, children try to keep the coconuts still.
Frantic hands in search of money for the toll, rustling paper and an outstretched arm.
The bus passes a bauxite mine, the dirt beneath the wheels red like rust.
Excavators extend their claws, the air densely fogged, a sulfuric smell overwhelms our senses.
The path grows narrower, cars somehow drive both directions on a one lane road.
The radio buzzes static, ferns take to the skies like rockets, sunlight scarce.
The coconuts hit the walls like pinballs, small hands grip the bottom of the seats.
Hearts skip like stones across a still pond, the bus moves from one parish to the next.
The sun returns, bringing friends, a picturesque scene where the sky meets the sea.
Mountains stand like distant guardians, looking over the grass fields and small goats.
Children gaze at the landscape, the road smooth like butter on coco bread.
Townspeople sell craft items, wooden statues and beaded necklaces.
Hotels peak their heads through the trees, tourist ships come in toward the docks.
The river’s stream rushes downward, excited feet race to meet its call.
Amber Thane is a member of the class of 2025. She was a psychology major with a minor in human resources. Amber was born in Florida, but grew up in Northern New Jersey. She enjoys reading, crafting, and watching movies. Amber embraces her Jamaican heritage, drawing inspiration from her memories visiting her family. In the future, she hopes to travel more and continue to write about her experiences.