By Steam Train

The big black engine snorting,
Driven by the  power of steam
The whistle blowing to trail
Far behind it’s muted scream,
Forging through the night.
I’m safe and warm inside
Enjoying every single second 
Of that comfortable ride
A sense of isolation 
A feeling of escape
As we steam on through
A dark blurred landscape.
In that  intimate compartment 
Almost like being in a cocoon 
Half awake half dreaming until
Journey’s end  all too soon.
Nothing quite as luxurious as
A long night journey by train,
Reality slowly returning to
A reluctantly waking brain.
Back out into a real world 
Of noise cold and light
Waiting friends at the barrier
Coming slowly into sight.
The big black engine crouching 
At the platform’s very end.
Whispering a steamy goodbye
Almost like a parting from a friend.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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Bauer Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 1:33 PM
i've never been on a long train ride, terry, but you make it sound very appealing...
Ireland Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 1:54 PM
Thanks ilene. Before the days of mobile phones and laptops a long train journey was such a delightful escape. Not so nice now but can still be a treat if you don’t have to listen to the phone calls.
Tor Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 11:31 AM
Love this Terry brings many memories of A train ride I took to California. Your words brought me there again. Love this one. Thanks for the memories...
Ireland Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 1:51 PM
Thanks Michael - you’ve now set me thinking about Country Music Trains, California Zephyr, City Of New Orleans, Wabash Cannon Ball. Yep, thanks again.
Volumes Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 9:22 AM
I used to be terrified of those loud, noisy smoky awful trains, when I was little. Finally went on one for a holiday once and they weren't so bad from the inside ! You brought back memories of over 60 years ago Terry, thank you.
Ireland Avatar
January 15, 2023 at 1:49 PM
Favourite part of any leave was the night train from Kings X to Hull when they still had steam trains and the old 10 seat compartments. Warm, safe and it was 3 - 4 hour journey. Always felt proper welcime home. Thanks Wen
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