The Little Old Clock Maker

A wizened little old man hunkered over his bench.
Gnarled hands wielded screwdriver, hammer and wrench.
Hung on the walls of his shop, all types of clocks were arrayed.
He'd been a clock maker for decades - he was master of his trade.

His quaint little shop was set in the Black Forest of Bavaria.
For his horology craft he was renowned in all the area.
Always smoking a pipe, the smoke forming a wreath about his head;
On his cluttered workbench, springs, gears and wheels were spread!

He could repair any old clock in a trice,
And have it back up and running for a reasonable price.
He could make you a fine clock from oak or cherry wood,
That would make you the envy of the neighborhood!

He adjusted pendulums to ensure a synchronous tick and tock.
Grandfather, cuckoo and mantel clocks he made from stock.
He took pride in his guild and his clocks are antiques today,
And in antique stores and museums, you'll find them on display.

To make his clocks he used no fancy lathes or tools,
Nor did he learn his craft in one of those elitist schools.
He dear old Father taught him everything he knew,
Telling him, "Son, be accurate and "timely" in all you do!"

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
(© All Rights Reserved)
Copyright © | Year Posted 2010

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

Strand Avatar
March 15, 2010 at 1:03 AM
Hi Robert one of the products a company I worked for, for 17 years were Marine Chronometers ,Best wishes with your hobby and your poetry.Rgds Brian and thanks for your welcome comments today
Taylor Avatar
March 14, 2010 at 8:10 AM
Hans Muellar had one of these shops in Weisbaden. My wife had our grandmother clock repaired by Hans. I was in awe when I went into his shop - totaly fasinated. He was 80 years old - been in the business for 60 years - also taught by his dad!
Strand Avatar
March 13, 2010 at 12:45 AM
An epic in verse Robert.Rgds Brian & thanks for your welcome comments.
Lusha Avatar
March 12, 2010 at 4:41 PM
Wow such a beautiful story, told by a true storyteller....loved it, thank you....Allie
Sweetheart Avatar
March 12, 2010 at 4:09 PM
Great words of advice at the end of this amazing write Bob .. your lines of perfection poetry always amaze me with your rhyme precision.. what a great talent and asset to us u are ... enjoyed..luv.. and thankxxx for your warm and welcome comments ..luv.. "Sweetheart"
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