A Tale of Old City

Philadelphia

Historic buildings may be closed

But there’s more to Old City than these

The buskers and artists not bound in the box

Still practice their crafts with ease

So, you can’t hear the toll of the Liberty Bell

Or breathe history in our sacred Hall

Ben Franklin’s press is drying up

His Court shut down to all

But brotherly love is still right here,

Defiantly vibrant, it seems

The birthplace of freedom keeps marching on

To the beat of Americans’ dreams

Author's Note

Spent Friday evening in Old City Philadelphia, where Independence National Park is "shut down". The streets were packed with musicians and artisans, a monthly outdoor craft fair... artists, just doin' what they do...

Reviews

[DrD]

I like poems about contemporary conditions, especially protest poetry. You captured a scene and broguht it to life and I enjoyed the walk through Philadelphia with you. Very well done.

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, DrD. Old City is the heart of Philly; so glad it is open again!

[David Scott]

Ah... The teacher emerges again. :)
I've never visited Phili... Someday I will.
You plant a seed to inspire.

[Rita L. Sev]

Hard to stop the teacher mode.. I highly recommend a visit to our city - once the Park is open again! Thanks, David!

[Tom]

Old ways and cultures die hard and nice to see they still prevail in the old city !

[Rita L. Sev]

Yes, they do - Philly artists are a tough breed! Thanks, Tom!

[Azure Montessa (Blue)]

You gave the Old City Philadelphia justice. Very beautifully-written! :)

[Rita L. Sev]

I love my city, and am eager for these places to open once again.. Thanks, Blue!

[SteveB]

Nicely done. Striking on the current situation without being partisan and pointing out that in a Republic the spirit of the people cannot be defeated or confused.

[Rita L. Sev]

Exactly. Seeing those buildings closed is heartbreaking, but business as usual in other ways was so good to see. Thanks, Steve.

[Baby Ricochet]

Three cheers for Philadelphia. HIP HIP HOORAY!!

[Rita L. Sev]

Or as they said in the days of the Revolution - Huzzah! Thanks, Mark!

[Debbie_Philly]

:( I hate that its shut down... great piece... I love old city... its beautiful just to walk through.... this is so sad.... so many things to see and do down there and so many are missing out... lovely piece Rita I really enjoyed it :)

[Rita L. Sev]

Thank you, Debbie... Yes, Old City is a favorite place for us, too - we were so glad to see the artists and musicians keeping it alive.

[ANTO]

They should change the tired phrase 'Get a life' to 'Get a busker's life!', come rain, shine or sleet they are always to be found in Belfast too and they brighten the place no end. I think its great that you recognise them like this Rita, good for you!
X

[Rita L. Sev]

My brother is a musician who started out busking on the streets of Old City - his website is called "Busker's Blues" - they have a special place in my heart! Thank you, Anto!

[Lydia Shutter]

They can't take away patriotism, can they? I am pleased to learn the artisans still showed up for the craft fair. Sounds like a lovely setting. Lydi**

[Rita L. Sev]

I had forgotten about the crafts on the first Friday of the month - it was a wonderful reminder that the government can wield a lot of power, but the spirit prevails... Thank you, Lydi.

[Angel]

Life goes on, regardless, eh??
That is good to know...

[Rita L. Sev]

Yes, it was very encouraging. Thanks, Angel.