Sail Away. Poem by PAUL COLVIN

Escaping on a sunlit haze
My eyes transfixed on purple gaze
I leave behind my youthful days,
To seek my fame and fortune.

Our crowded boat 300 strong
Our sails are full to the sailors song
And to wave goodbye, a mighty throng
But no-one’s there for me.

We crash through foaming, surging waves
As one man finds his watery grave
And stories told of black men slaves
Held captive down below.

The righteous read from books and pray
Allaying fears of Judgement Day
Dreaded thoughts may come my way
But I fear not its coming.

The stench so thick it hurts my eyes
And vomit spewed where bodies lie
Open flesh wounds, hear them cry
Sympathy and sorrow.

Our blighted ship cuts lashing rain
No laughter now just fear and pain
God help those wrapped up in chains
Headed for Newfoundland.

My dream is now a distant thought
No longer do I feel distraught
But thankful to the dream I sought
As we approach our end.