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low lowlands low
by Peter Humphreyslow lowlands low
across the marsh
and through the mist
the lonely castle stood
on rocky knoll
where time forgot
and phantasms creep
amidst the trees
the damp dull darkness of the past
creeps through
unburied bones
low lowlands low
across the bay
where seagulls play
and valiant men have drowned
at night
neath moon
and starry plough
I wonder will
you break the vow
that binds us
through the marrow
low lowlands low
along the quay
tis you and me
midst lobster pots
and netting
dead creatures neath our feet
do stare as open
in the freezing air
our bodies pressed
against the wall
our breath does mellow mingle
low lowlands low
where is the moon
this heathen night
where are the bats
from castle flight
where is the heart
that frost cant bite
down here
out there
low
on lowlands low
10/10/2008
Author's Note: This poem was inspired by the great traditional song/sea shanty of the same name. There are of course many versions of the lyrics but the best are set, as this poem, in the dangerous waters between Hook Head, Kilmore Quay, the Saltees and Carnsore Point, where there are many wrecks. This poem was written on Kilmore Quay this summer 'midst a howling gale but perhaps is better suited to Halloween? The chorus and first two lines of each stanza can be sung, if the fancy takes you!
Posted on 10/10/2008
Copyright © 2024 Peter Humphreys
| Member Comments on this Poem |
| Posted by Kristina Woodhill on 10/10/08 at 03:19 PM "the damp dull darkness of the past
creeps through
unburied bones" - a great way to marry past with present that sets the tone in this most memorable poem. The music and lyrics are old yet new, the sea ever present. My POTD.
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| Posted by George Hoerner on 10/10/08 at 04:40 PM Thanks for the posting Peter. I recall 30 odd years ago, and I do mean odd, when I sang sea shanties as a member of what was called "The Down Jersey Marine Historical Scoiety". We were developing a 13 acre marine park on the north inelet of Atlantic City NJ. Aye, it twas agreat time had by all. |
| Posted by Gregory O'Neill on 10/10/08 at 06:35 PM Hey friend Peter! This has a wonderfully classical feel.(and I see why per your note!)I will reread this many times. A fav+. Thanks. |
| Posted by Mike Loftis on 10/12/08 at 06:08 PM Every line and every word are simply excellent. A very enjoyable read. |
| Posted by Kristina Woodhill on 02/12/15 at 04:49 PM Great to see this as POTD! |
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