The Swimmer

He was tall and lacked any bulk. Sliding in the water, his long slim body remained perfectly centered in a straight line, driving noiselessly forward. A long, brown arm rose out of the water, circled forward, and fell almost lazily, fingertips first, like a knife cutting into the water ahead. Then the other arm rose and repeated its circle. The lower legs and feet kicked gently, barely breaking the surface, leaving hardly any waves behind. His rhythm seemed leisurely, almost slow, yet the walls on both sides flew by. His body looked almost still except for the gentle rolling from side to side with each arm stroke. Everything was in perfect harmony as water split apart before him. He was so quiet with nary a splash, like a water snake.