The Lone Umpire !

A nostalgic tale...

Mark this and mark it well,
for it was a fine, upstanding deed
he journeyed far to ring the bell,
so that others may succeed!

‘Twas with rumours rife of ill-health
a sporting constitution in decline
that some chose the sanctuary of wealth
rather than dig in and mark time!

But two cricket clubs of noted invention
each, from nearby boarding lands
knew cure was better than suspension
thus set about employing new hands!

They called a game, a friendly match
betwixt the other, by the factory ground
encouraging all to play, bat, bowl and catch
and to this venue, folk flocked from all around!

A problem then became apparent
organized chaos would ensue
but fears allayed by the arrival of a gent
dressed in a smart attire, of navy blue!

Proceedings quickly fell into place
those unsure, soon got it right
for he guided each with a smiling face
as they learned to joist, overseen by a noble knight!

Now few are born with a midas touch
but all are still deserving of a chance
and the lone umpire knew as much
that’s why he took this forthright stance!

So if you find your club unmanned
don’t just crouch and hide behind the door
negate with resources found at hand
then like the lone umpire, you will know; ‘Esprit de corps’! 

Author's Note

The ideas for all my little stories are of course inspired by many cricket games/occurrences that one tends to be involved in as the seasons pass by from year to year and equally, the fascinating characters you meet along the way.

And with my latest piece of poetry there's no exception, very happy to report that both clubs alluded too therein, have since gone from strength to strength and the official gentleman who guessed the occasion with a surprise appearance, helped make the whole affair a very worthwhile exercise indeed; unaccompanied for this particular match but nevertheless, a colossus....

Reviews

[AYVID N]

I love the way the spirit of this game is imbibed into your very soul Tom. So much that every nuance every happening of an event connected to the game creates a new message for you to be construed and connected with the larger picture of life. I loved the entry of the gent with the smart attire of navy blue! Loved the entire poem!

[Tom]

Thank you DIVYA and yes indeed, rather than simply write about various games of cricket which even for fans of the game could become pretty boring, I try to incorporate as you so aptly put it; ' the small but important happenings that build a picture and hint at the nuances of life !

[Briana O'Connor]

Excuse my modern day terms but-This is flippen awesome!!! The way you too a sport and wove it into expression and beauty was extraordinary! Each line painted a vivid picture of triumph and understanding. Very well done. Thank you for sharing and keep up the good work!

[Tom]

Very kind of you to say so Briana and thank you for your appreciated visit !

[Sophy Freebirds]

I am a great cricket fan.... i like to watch and i used to play it.i've a passion for this game.And most of your themes are related to it.I can't wait to check it out.The wonderful way in which you've given a ethical lesson,its great.Yes,,everyone is not born with a midas touch;you have pointed it out clearly but everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves.Boosted me up.I am inspired. :)

~Sophy

[Tom]

Thank you Sophy, so nice to receive a review from a fellow aficionado !

[Sophy Freebirds]

You're welcome muchly. Anything for cricket :)

[Beccy]

Most enjoyable. Cricket is a good metaphor for life, which not always as simple and clear cut as it seems.

Beccy.

[Tom]

Yes indeed Beccy, a point well made & thanks for visiting !

[Frieda P]

‘Esprit de corps'...I feel that come through every poem you write about the game of cricket coach...you are truly a spirited player and coach, you've taught me so much about the game within your poetic genius and also a few life lessons along the way, as always I'm in awe! Batter up!

[Tom]

Yes indeed Frieda as you point out, there's more to people power than just a game. Thanks for your always welcome, insightful, visit and comment!

[Frieda P]

It's always my pleasure, if not for you, I'd not know a thing about the game...! You're an inspiration...truly.

[Tom]

The pleasure is all mine !

[Sami Khalil]

"But two cricket clubs of noted invention
each, from nearby boarding lands
knew cure was better than suspension
thus set about employing new hands!

They called a game, a friendly match"

[Tom]

Thank you Sami !

[Sami Khalil]

You are welcome...:).......................

[Lydia Shutter]

Your poetry always teaches a life lesson. Although it has a moral, it is preachy. Down to earth observances of real life....and always a pleasure to read, Tom. Lydi**

[Tom]

Thank you Lydia and welcome back, were you on vacation?

[Lydia Shutter]

Not really a vacation, Tom....lots of "stuff" happening in our lives here.....still going through a lot, but needed my poetry fix. Thanks for noticing I was away. Lydi**

[Matching Socks]

Some good lessons there. :)
Good write.

[Tom]

Thank you kindly!

[Great Aunt Astri]

A poem with a moral! I love your poems, but I still don't like to watch cricket!

[Tom]

Thank you Great Auntie A and indeed, as long as you enjoy the poetry then I've achieved my objective!

[The Quill]

simply great, i never thought a game of cricket could be seen from such a special view....nicely penned..

[Tom]

Thank you kindly Mr Quill and yes indeed, the game especially at local level encapsulates so much community spirit!