The Pier: A Poem by Pete Marshall

The Pier

I walked along these wooden planks

as wind would lash and tear my face

the seas would crash beneath my feet

and rain would strike my inner faith

my eyes stared down as feet trod forth

my coat was buttoned, drenched but warm

the gulls would screech and ride the storm

as depths were dredged and hope reborn

upon these planks that Satan swiped

who’s bombs would fall in darkened nights

but seas would swirl and hold its strength

as planks were walked and centuries spent

A tram would pass and catch my eye

as lovers kissed a mile goodbye

A child waved through misty glass

the planks were heavy, wooden paths

and blackened skies and cloudy greys

that hid the shores of Kent’s parade

would mark a time when boats would rise

and clouds would clear from weeping eyes

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In the Thames Estuary stands the longest Pier in the world, Southend Pier, reaching out to 1.34 miles. There are times in my life when my mind needs cleansing and there is nothing more refreshing, whatever the weather, of a walk along this Grade II listed landmark. 

The Pier has a history dating back to 1830. It has been spoken of by Sir John Betjeman, mentioned in the Hitch Hikers Guide to The Galaxy, and thwarted Hitler's plans as a major landing stage during World War II, serving over 80,000 ships. To me however, the Pier is and has always been part of my life. As a child my parents would often taken me on weekly walks along this landmark and today I still enjoy and celebrate its beauty.

This is my poem for One Shot Wednesday, run by One Stop Poetry, a fast growing site dedicated to poets & writers of all genres.

image courtesy creative commons flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/jimdelaney/