The Leaving of Liverpool

THE LEAVING OF LIVERPOOL Giant ferry berthed in Mersey River : Tugs take the strain with a shiver, Ropes creak and we cast off - She timorously inches away from the wharf. Bow comes round and leaves the dyke: Lit buildings spin carousel-like - Strong currents have us in tow. Black vortices with bubbles below, Inkiness of river water stark: Hear it more than see it in the dark. Big crewman in black woolly hat Yelling to another in Serbo-Croat: Looks like mayhem but they know How to swing her into the river, so That ropes, men, machines, move in sync Floating her out on the ink. Liverpool fades in red glow; Stars emerge from hiding low. On the frowning wave We are alone in the dark, save Our own lights cast ghostly Into nothingness mostly. Go inside and shut out the night. In the morning Dublin in sight.