A world away
Is where the orient used to be
In the days of the slow boats to China
Siam, Ceylon et al
Days of regency
and high teas in high places

Magellan, da Gama, Columbus
All aboard for the long journey
Across the rolling seas
Beneath the skies of many dawns and dusks

How many fair isle jumpers knitted
Tales told
Hearts broken at the start of yet another journey for the sailor
Another parting?
Wives and children wave
The kiss ere blown
Becoming the mist of that early morning's departure

Places have different names now
People have different faces
As each crosses the borders of the other's land
With ease,energy and eagerness
to graze on that greener grass

Welcome, children, to this world
Our present is your inheritance
Your present and ours
will be your grandchildrens' history
What tales will they hear
Of a world away?

09/01/2002

Posted on 09/01/2002
Copyright © 2024 Anne Howe