The Old Hand Saw

...for Ted Kooser

 
A reminder of my father; 
more antique than useful it was tucked 
inside my tool box ever ready to be used.
Soaped and sharpened many times 
the blade was keen and hungry.
I took it with me everywhere 
'til pure gave way to power,
and through the years it waited,
I could never give it up. 
The skilsaw superseded; a cold, 
efficient implement that did as it was told,
never a slip. As my effectiveness
fell short, my eyes became unsure,
my hands bore witness to the times
I slipped and sliced until I bled 
when choosing my old friend. 
Museum pieces, he and I, 
both worn and put away; 
I still recall the touch, the feel,
the smell of yesterday.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2015

Poem

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Bauer Avatar
May 28, 2015 at 5:03 PM
poignant and poetic! i love whatever you write, keith...
A  Avatar
May 28, 2015 at 1:35 PM
intresting poem
Kendrick Avatar
May 28, 2015 at 12:17 PM
Those hand saws and cross cut saws kept a man slim and muscular..Enjoyed reading your memory of your father..Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a nice review of my work..Sara
Bickerstaffe Avatar
May 28, 2015 at 12:42 PM
You are most welcome... and thank YOU for a delightful review! Keith
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