The Abandoned Work Boat

7 Comments

Poem Commentary

This poem was written to go with the accompanying pencil drawing by the artist Paul McGehee.

The Abandoned Work Boat

In a field, near an old broken pier,
Set the remnants of an abandoned work boat.
The frame worn and sheered, reflected its years,
Several pylons kept it afloat.

Called Viola, its reflection told ya,
It had once served superfluously.
Its bows lined with tires were subtle reminders,
Of its yeoman austerity.

Viola was old and stories were told,
Of how prominent and noble it had been.
What would it take, to reinvigorate,
This once mighty sea dog again?

With a little TLC, this work boat could be,
The resurrection of its once vibrant past.
When it trolled the bay, for its catch each day,
Of crabs, blue fish, oysters and bass.

So many today are retired, put away,
Laid off like Viola in their time.
Our country's become an unemployed kingdom,
Where many have not reached their prime.

It's sad to see so many worthy,
Standing in employment lines.
The hypocrisy of bureaucracy,
Has become our nation's worst crime.

So many folks live with so much to give,
Yet haven't the means to survive.
They struggle to eat and make ends meet,
Find shelter and just stay alive.

Sure jobs exist, on paper and lists.
Yet it all seems like one big charade.
Those who've applied are routinely denied,
While those considered aren't paid.

Given a chance, the old boat could enhance,
Lives with so many mouths to feed.
It could be her way to earn her own pay,
Provide for so many in need.

So Viola received a spiritual reprieve,
Was restored and soon prospered again.
She overcame strife, found a virtual new life,
Is no longer worthless or abandoned.


Copyright © November 2010
Kevin Mooney

kmm001
110610

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redbloodink commented on The Abandoned Work Boat

11-21-2010

This creation rang true to my ears......."It's sad to see so many worthy, Standing in employment lines. The hypocrisy of bureaucracy, Has become our nation's worst crime." Altho I don't stand in the unemployment line cause the last three yrs I have worked a few cash jobs.......... No pay in no collect........ Our government is neglecting our needs as a nation of wanting to work people like myself with many talents to offer...... As I offer these talents I wounder why I still struggle to find work... Nice write ty for sharing....... red

ApaqRasgirl commented on The Abandoned Work Boat

11-20-2010

that was wonderful dear and I am so glad that I stumbled onto this one.....for this is one of many reasons why I love photography. I often stop and take time to shoot images of old barns, worn our plows and yes even old boats as reminders of what was and can be again.....your poem had a magic touch to it, a brilliance of a life that could have gone unnoticed. wonderful read dear..........loved it.....love asha

MrGee commented on The Abandoned Work Boat

11-20-2010

Excellent! I could not agree with you more. Of course, the rich control our lives. Would I be incorrect to suggest that the poem is an Allegory? 10 - + 10 from me. I consider this one of your best works and glad to see that you have matured in your writing skill and graduated from the use of rhymn when not necessary in this Outstanding write. okies I can only rate it a 10 however, If I cud I wud rate it higher.

ginga commented on The Abandoned Work Boat

11-20-2010

Kevin, I am relieved that Viola gets to set sail with her fishermen once gain in a tale abandonment and struggling economy. An imaginative and emotive poem that sprung from a piece of art. Well written. ginga

Teardrops commented on The Abandoned Work Boat

11-11-2010

I am in awe of you and the beautiful and talented way you write . I loved the poem my friend . A 10 seems so low and honor for this poem thanks for the read Marie

kmooney

11/11/2010

Thanks Marie...

The true philosopher and the true poet are one, and a beauty, which is truth, and a truth, which is beauty, is the aim of both.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, American Poet (1803-1882)

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