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An Old Clinker Boat in Williamstown

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There is a sadness at the sight of this wreck of a boat, beached on a brick pad, paralyzed and deprived of riding the tides or being swung on a mooring line by waves and wind. It sits as a curiosity to attract a passing eye, a ruptured monument to the precincts maritime history. With a gaping hole and peeling paint it is a mere caricature stripped of dignity. On walks I often pass it or sit nearby as if in silent vigil or just to keep it company for a while. I would like to see it given a fate more fitting than being an exhibit of progressive decay. Silly of me perhaps to endow it with worth and be moved to write these words and do honor to the hands that made it, feel a sense of sorrow as a weathered soul is sometimes inclined to do when confronted by such a sight.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2024




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Date: 6/23/2024 7:17:00 PM
I seldom recall a poem where the poignancy was as thick -- like a maple syrup! -- as in this write, Paul. And that's a good thing! Kudos, Gershon
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Paul Willason
Date: 6/25/2024 5:15:00 AM
Such a gracious comment my dear Gershon...my thanks for taking the time to savor this little exploration into the thoughts that sometimes enter the mind....valued. Regards, Pail
Date: 6/19/2024 11:48:00 AM
Worse part is Paul, it will probably be just left to fall asunder, it’s almost a humiliation for the boat if there is such a thing, and you do give that impression through your poignant words, I’ve seen some of these old boats getting a good lick of paint and some restoration work done, then used as landmarks in some costal towns, they really do appear to have a soul! Cheers David
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Paul Willason
Date: 6/25/2024 5:07:00 AM
I am an incorrigible romantic when it comes to maritime totems, old boats, dilapidated wharves, anything that once wore the smell of salt. Grew up and fed on the history of a port, first job was with a shipping agent. Sad when history is devalued by neglect. Value your comments David.
Date: 6/19/2024 10:49:00 AM
Dear Paul, I loved how your caring words breathed life into that old clinker boat. It may sit as a curiosity like a ruptured monument to maritime history but you given it life. I, too will keep a silent vigil, hoping for a more dignified fate. - Blessings, My Friend, Daniel
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Paul Willason
Date: 6/25/2024 4:57:00 AM
Many thanks Daniel...I probably display a tinge of sentimentality, but hey, It services a genuine respect for something that took time to make and commanded considerable skill...cheers, Paul

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