Took old John fishin' in the dory
this mornin' on the incoming tide.
He's in his 80's, name isn't John, it's Leroy
even his wife calls him John.
John's failing … it's in his walk, no garden,
the skiff didn't get overboard this year.
Been a great neighbor, helpful and kind,
lived here near the sea all his life.
Didn't catch any fish, didn't care
just enjoyed each other’s company.
Took in the smell of fresh salt air,
some ducks goin' south, a few seals.
We decided to do it again next year,
but we both knew we never would.
August, 2001
Old John passed on this morning
... a good man, will miss him.
August 8, 2004
Author notes
Written July 21st, 2006
A contest entry
- Express your feelings by Razor-Blade Romance.
313 points, ended June 1, 2007, 16 entries
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
What did you think
Comments
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I like the deadication of this poem. It is a nicely written poem. Well done !
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Thank you, Mary. Old John was such a simple man but so unforgettable ... think of him often as I head out to sea.
Visited your site and noted your connection to God. Hope you will read my poem "The Ready Room" ... times when God seems so near. Thanks again. -
Awe, such a touching and heartfelt write. Just in this short poem I felt I knew him. You did well to bring him to life. Sorry to hear about your friend. Isn't wonderful though, you had a last chance to share and enjoy his company. Good one. Well done.
~Mary O
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