A Thames barge bobbed about on a choppy sea,
Its brown canvas sails welcoming the winds strength.
One sturdy craft, well built with good width and length,
Making its way towards the wooden jetty.
Plying across the water’s rolling white crest,
Not hurrying, moving with a peaceful glide.
Ruled each time by the turning of the tide,
Sailing to and fro upon its patient quest.
Such a solid proven structure their design,
These working vessels were always on the go,
Relying on the strong squally gales that blow,
A beautiful sight when seen from the shoreline.
Grace is written all over each ample frame,
A boat that famous artists loved to paint.
Their style is what you might call rather quaint,
And yet its odd shape has its own claim to fame.
Most have vanished from rivers and estuaries,
A creation that is sadly on the wane.
They will never ever be replaced again,
These classy voyagers from past centuries.
© Ernestine Northover
A nice nostalgic write Ernestine, I also am not familiar with the barges you mention but enjoyed reading about them here, thanks, Lynda xx
Still love this solid poem, and watching the sea myself......
It's a real shame when little pieces of history are lost forever. Thanks for sharing this beautiful poem. Andrew x
The traditional ABBA style you employ in this poem perfectly mimics the grandeur and 'class' of your subject. A superb descriptive piece painted in oils and hung in a gilt frame. Stunning work. love, Allie ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
This poem about the ship returning home - I love how you re-port it.. -chuck
What lovely poem, Ernestine! I love wooden boats and tall ships there is such a connection to heart and soul, their bones each hand-crafted with the true love only master shipbuilder can impart.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Aim becomes clear, please forgive a fool for showing his ignorance, this is still a beautiful write all-the-same Love duncan X