Home » Poems » Clive Culverhouse » Old Jaw Harp

Old Jaw Harp

Aging man your shoes do not shine upon jagged century’s wooden floor scuffed, swollen leathers, buckles not laces, bereft of brush that buffed they tap your time, just time for you where ghosts still walk and gather to hear, in a back room on folk night plucking on your jaw harp, your empty pint stoic, but full to you, as is the room and crackling fire your applause, for off eyes closed, you journey with the flames forever the beat of your own story at peace, long after closing time, play.

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Sara Etgen-Baker

Date: 10/31/2023 1:23:00 PM

a thought-provoking read, Clive. I felt twinges of sadness reading of the man playing his old jaw harp alone, listening to the fire and its applause. I agree so often we journey with the same flames playing the beat of our own story after closing time. I'm wowed by this one!! Enjoyed. Have a pleasant evening, Sara

Clive Culverhouse
Date: 10/31/2023 1:42:00 PM

Thank you for your kind words and feelings Sara, I must admit this is among my favourites of my poems so I'm pleased you were wowed.

Sotto Poet

Date: 10/31/2023 6:26:00 AM

Your ability to intertwine emotions and thoughts with eloquent language is truly remarkable. The composition is exceptionally well-crafted, evoking deep contemplation and provoking thought. The impact of numerous lines within this poem is particularly poignant. Thanks for your uplifting comment on my page.

Clive Culverhouse
Date: 10/31/2023 7:08:00 AM

Wow, thank you for your highly experienced analysis of my poem, you've certainly uplifted me with your comment, thanks for your time.

Ink Empress

Date: 10/30/2023 10:43:00 PM

What a thought provoking and deep poem this is! So many lines hit really hard for me including “ eyes closed, you journey with the flames” “ where ghosts still walk and gather“ soul stirring! I love also the flow of this poem! Pleasure reading your work. Sending you light always

Clive Culverhouse
Date: 10/31/2023 12:43:00 AM

Thank you for your time and your kind supportive words, it's very much appreciated