Skerryvore Lighthouse

An sgeir mhòr – the great rock stands
In mid-Atlantic far from shore.
It’s claimed the lives of many hands
From sailing vessels by the score.
	And how the winds and waves did roar
	Around the rock of Skerryvore.

There came a man called Stevenson?,
From watery grave brave souls to save,
To build a lighthouse, he’s the one,
Long battling with wind and wave.
	And how the winds and waves did roar
	Around the rock of Skerryvore.

With granite from the Ross of Mull
He manufactured giant blocks,
Transported them when storms would lull
To land them on the murderous rocks.
	And still the winds and waves do roar
	Around the rock of Skerryvore.

His team worked hard in every weather
Assembling blocks, dressed to perfection;
With dovetailed joint they locked together –
Precisely engineered, each section.
	And still the winds and waves do roar
	Around the rock of Skerryvore.

For thirty months o’er six long years
They laboured seventeen hours a day,
With common aim and conquered fears
And mainland safety far away.
	All day the winds and waves would roar 
	Around the rock of Skerryvore.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2014

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

Lindley Avatar
June 8, 2014 at 10:24 AM
Another fine write!! A splendid story told and smooth flow in the telling.. BBravoooo!!!!
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