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Early Morning Walk

A solitary child really, Shotgun under arm, Wandering the flood plains On Billy Bulson’s farm, Hammer uncocked, Chamber free of charge Enjoying the sensation Of wandering at large. Not shooting for pleasure But out to fill the pot. Today we could manage With just what we’ve got, Not getting any pleasure From any single kill Just hoping it was clean And done with some skill It’s an overcast morning Sun fighting to break through Grass wet underfoot from A heavy morning dew. It’s Saturday today so I can take my pleasure Walking these fields Slowly at my leisure Weapon broken barrelled Now I’m back on the road To ensure I’m complying with The shooters safety code. My next walk will be Just a little bit harder, Supplies are getting lower In the family larder. Any Weekday morning I’d be in a bit of a rush Racing up Church Lane To catch my school bus, Part of my double life that Brings me so much joy, Village country bumpkin and City Grammar School boy.

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Di11y Da11y

Date: 4/5/2023 12:26:00 PM

I'm a bit squeamish Terry but even so I could still enjoy this poem - what a feat! I think it's because it's in the past, out of necessity and as you say, not done for pleasure.

Terry Ireland
Date: 4/5/2023 12:36:00 PM

So am I Dilly. Hated it every time, but I had to pull my weight. But I did enjoy the walks

David Smith

Date: 3/14/2023 1:23:00 AM

Can relate to this. Seems a long time ago but when at high school in country area boys would sometimes arrive at school with 22 in boot of car and Principle would ask how many rabbits they got today. Those were the days when you wore a sheath knife in the weekend and a pocket knife at school. Nobody was shot or stabbed and accidents with all three were rare. Lawn mowers presented more danger as Martin Guptil, cricketer will testify. Many things are offensive weapons now. Regards David in NZ

Terry Ireland
Date: 3/14/2023 1:43:00 AM

Thanks David. It was amazing during the long summer holidays how many of my City friends would pop down for a visit., and of course a walk in the fields. As you said, we all carried knives as tools. Sad how our society has changed.