California's Pride - Sextilla

All I have to offer  is this cigar
and  clay cup of  whiskey that’s not so bad.
Hides are loaded, sir,  thought you would be glad 
We’re ready to sail at first evening  star.
Rounding the Cape at this late time of year
is dangerous but can be done, no fear.

Hold’s filled with hides, men have done their duty
things are shipshape, sir, hides are thoroughly dried.
no wasters here, we’ll catch the evening’s  tide.
They’ll pay good price for California’s pride.
Boston ‘wants prime leather for boots and shoes,
this ship will give them what they want to choose


With scopes  they’ll watch for our then arrival
Making wagers  what ship will make birth first,
losers with naught but dry and angry thirst.
Owner thankful for his ship’s survival
and happy he’s first to sell at market
With many buys filling his vest pocket
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Poteet Avatar
February 20, 2018 at 2:00 PM
Congratulations on the honor of your placement. A delight to read, just was studying Spanish forms this AM trying to distinquish between a seguidilla and a septilla, I ran into the sextilla. The first two have seven lines and yours has 6. A lovely form too.
Barden Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 11:57 PM
Very unusual but fascinating and substantive write, Alfred - I enjoyed this very much! Congratulations on your win, friend! :-)
Gauthier Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 7:51 PM
What a wonderful read, a most enchanting historical peek. Congrats on your well deserved win, Alfred.
Canerdy Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 7:27 PM
Very entertaining and well-written, Alfred--CONGRATS! Janice
Ashley Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 7:18 PM
A great poem of rugged adventure Alfred. Very intriguing and compelling, I was captivated with your write and wished it was longer.. Just awesome! Congratulations on your fine win.. ~Susan
Leiser Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 6:46 PM
Very manly poem, and nicely worded, as well! Congrats on your win, Alfred :)
Richards Avatar
February 19, 2018 at 5:46 PM
Great poem and such an adventure you have taken us on, Alfred. Thanks for the lovely salty air !! Congratulations too !!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace