Robert L. Hinshaw Poet Rhyme

Abandoned House

A deserted old house stood off the county road a little way.
To keep apace of living I rushed by it almost every day.
For years I'd wanted to visit there to see what secrets it held,
And perhaps find out about the folks who in it had once dwelled.

Towering oaks stood erectly as if to guard the old place.
Clinging vines held weathered clapboards in precarious embrace.
I mused as I opened the latch on the sagging garden gate,
"Why was it forsaken and left in such a forlorn state?"

Floors squeaked and mice skittered as I sauntered down the hall.
Abruptly, something caught my eye on the faded papered wall.
'Twas a grim, unsmiling portrait of a Victorian family of eight.
I wondered who they were and I pondered about their fate.

Off the hall was the parlor where stood a brick-lined fireplace.
I could fancy the cheery flames glowing upon each happy face,
As they celebrated gala affairs or gathered for family prayers.
Alas, the old folks passed on - their children seeking other affairs.

What had been a vibrant, loving home was now a house in shambles,
Almost overtaken by massive oaks, shrubs and tangled brambles.
But my downcast mood was uplifted despite the engulfing gloom,
As I saw roses planted so very long ago now in magnificent bloom!

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Jancarl Campi April 22, 2012 at 5:29 AM Another delightful read. Perhaps the spirits come back and tend to the garden. You are most talented. I write such short poems. Perhaps I should try something different. Take care and keep writing. Thanks for sharing your gift with us.

Carolyn Devonshire March 30, 2012 at 4:01 PM Isn't it interesting how the house falls apart, but the roses still bloom. I hate to see properties like this. Most of them work farms at one time. You are such a talented writer! Wonderful descriptions of the old home. Love, Carolyn

Carol Eastman March 30, 2012 at 8:39 AM Wonderful story poem. I loved this one! Your's a always great!

Maureen Lefanue March 29, 2012 at 11:16 PM Thanks, Bob, for your kind comments. Haven't been spending much time on Poetrysoup lately as am busy getting more books edited for publishing. Great poem - old places can be scary or beautiful, you covered both in this grea poem. Have a wonderful weekend! God bless, Maureen

Chittaranjan Dey March 29, 2012 at 7:05 AM This is gorgeous and precious writing. Love this.

Ilene Bauer March 28, 2012 at 4:38 PM this is different from many of your humorous poems but it's equally wonderful. you really made me wonder about this family and i love how you lifted the somber mood with the roses at the end. bravo!

Samia Ali Salama March 28, 2012 at 9:51 AM I love your poem, both the subject and the rhyme!

S.Jagathsimhan Nair March 28, 2012 at 5:10 AM Thnx so much for your kind ,uplifting comments, Bob,.. while deserted houses remain without a second look from passersby, your sensitive mind explores it to find new life blooming there,.. great work . PS: to tell that i write your kind of poetry is a great compliment which i don't think i deserve, thank u so much, jag

Poet Destroyer A March 27, 2012 at 10:36 PM Bob H., a wonderful poem,,almost like a story... , thank you for the lovely walk... and poem, I had much fun and thought reading your poem tonight*LUV~PD

Brenda Victoria Northeast March 27, 2012 at 10:19 PM What a wonderful write Robert- You had me spell bound amidst the creaking floor boards- loved it, bren : )

Linda-Marie Sweetheart March 27, 2012 at 9:09 PM wow Bob a vivid depiction and description in these excellent lines of rhymed poetry luv.. hope u are not near those awful fires that the news has been featuring most of the day ..some lost lives and some missing.. true? so sad.. hope u and Vera are safe luv..