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The skilsaw superseded; a cold, 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



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Date: 12/20/2015 1:43:00 AM
Some things that others take for granted or ignore end up being our close companions through life. A lovely piece, Keith, with an absolute belter of a last line. Regards, Viv
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Date: 12/12/2015 12:54:00 AM
Ahh the smell of old hand tools. Reminds me of my father. Eenjoyable read bringing recall to the surface as you go
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/12/2015 6:22:00 AM
Thanks Craig! Much appreciated... Keith
Date: 12/10/2015 9:36:00 AM
I like the comparison of our lives to the handsaw..Great work..I enjoyed reading this one today..Thanks for the visit to my page..Sara
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Date: 12/9/2015 12:29:00 PM
- It is strange that smell gives memories ..... but it does - A great poem, Keith - hugs // Anne-Lise :)
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 3:42:00 PM
Thanks Anne! Hugs, Keith
Date: 12/9/2015 12:03:00 PM
a priceless vignette from a charmed past, keith... such a tender. lyrical piece!..huggs
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 12:07:00 PM
Thank you so much nette! Reviews from you are my prized possessions... Best wishes, Keith
Date: 12/9/2015 11:22:00 AM
A great tribute that brought back sweet memories of my father. Thank-you!
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 11:47:00 AM
I'm happy for your recollection David... best wishes, Keith
Date: 12/9/2015 8:44:00 AM
I remember planting tomatoes with my late father. It was cool! Nice poem! Peace & Blessings Matthew Anish
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 9:13:00 AM
Thank you Matthew... much appreciated. Keith
Date: 12/8/2015 9:27:00 PM
All is deep in nostalgia and wisdom but the ending is me my friend. I long for my yesterdays and my youth although it was a wild one.A7 Adding this true gem to my fav list.. Thanks.
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 7:59:00 AM
Thank you Robert! I consider you as a favourite poet also... your work is inspirational! Best wishes, Keith
Date: 12/8/2015 6:41:00 PM
oh, this is so poignant, keith! i especially love the ending...
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Keith Bickerstaffe
Date: 12/9/2015 10:08:00 AM
Thanks Ilene! So nice to hear from you... Best wishes, Keith
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