Tall Ships Race. Poem by Fay Slimm
Tall Ships Race.
Commisioned, as I am, to write a rhyme
By one who sailed with Tall Ships in his time,
I see with child's eye, come the thrilling day,
As folk appear from far and near in close array
To watch the Tall Ships sail off from the bay.
Squatting family columns sit astride each patch
Of nearly dry, but coveteous space of coastline grass
To catch the rare-seen vista of large vessels as they pass.
Wide-eyed, up-turned, ice-cream smiling faces
Cheer, as Herculean riggings start their paces
Of un-furling sail, and suddenly, with graces
Fit for ballroom, gliding gentle through the glassy sea
White billowy gowns appear, which, sunlit, seem to be
Transforming all small boats, hot with hasty knots,
Into bath-time bobbing toys which each giant quietly mocks,
As silently retreating, they leave behind the docks.
Liquid blue, their watery bed rocks the monsters far away.
White-winging into hazy mist, invaders of a previous day.
But we agree there's never been such spectacle before.
Even, in the year of nineteen seventy four,
So Grandad says, when he had, for sure,
Taken part himself in Tall Ship races way back then.
He had known he proudly says some very brave seamen
Who now through unrelentless age would never sail again.
So now they're gone, it's home in setting sun to bed,
Sauntering on we try to keep the vision in our head.
Collect up togs and dogs, give help with laden pram,
Hold tight to hands, but keep an eye on sleepy Gran.
Steering clear of beery tents or chip smells from the van.
Next time Tall Ships come I may be old but I'll not miss
Another chance of seeing such a sight as this.
Fay, what a fantastic piece, salt water hits the face again.I loved the first line of the third stansa, brings it all back to me.Thankyou for a well penned piece.10+++ Regards Tom
You've captured the beauty of those lovely vessels here. Ahh, I think I was born about a hundred years too late! - chuck
The majesty of a ship when she's in full sail bellowing white blankets, and the wake of her trail the list that she takes, her ballast adjusted her varnished wood, thats not been neglected Cook sailed the Firth of Thames, and named her! then the 'scows' ruled the waves' the beauty of sail and the wonder of steam! Still in our lifetime Fay! regards Bob
Fay. this one is the best of poems, written with rythmn and style. Your vision stayed so I could in small part enjoy the sight like you. Thank you, I am taking this one with me. Bob xx
Sailing in the tall ships race for fun is one thing but in the days of sailWhen the tea clippers raced to get the best prices it was a different and brutal life for seamen many of whom had been pressganged Enjoyed this very much Fay
Fay, this has to be one of the most enchanting poems I have ever read. I was spellbound and wishing I was there to see the tall ships too. Your description is like a dreamy memory with the awe of a young child. Absolutely beautiful.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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4/23/2024 5:58:09 PM # 1.0.0.1119
Hi Fay. Wow I was on the deck for a moment or two, how well you describe the beauty of the old tall ships. it gets my ten without a doubt. Kindest Regards Dave T.