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/
