Albert's Gift

(For Albert)

My memory doesn't serve me well,

at times it plays at peek-a-boo,

but I recall with clarity

those precious moments spent with you.

As I sat by your slippered feet,

I'd see the twinkle in your eye

and listen wide-eyed as you'd tell

why Shalot's Lady had to die.

And soon by heart I'd learn the lines,

years later I can still recall

that magic spell you wove for me

of metered rhyme when I was small.

That's all that I have left of you,

the photos fade as time goes by,

so when I picture you with me,

the child inside begins to cry.

It can't be bought what you bestowed,

you paved a path that suited me

and how I've danced along the way

to find my joy in poetry.

Reviews

[Einstein Noodle]

i had just finished my review and all of a sudden it went "aw snap" ... a nasty demon at work no doubt!! >;{
... so as i was saying......... great job! you must have had a pretty cool relationship with Albert to have been gifted so ... and your tribute to him and Alfred, as i think you mean Shalott instead of Shalot ;), is par excellence madaam .. you combine classic rhythm and rhyming with our modern language so well says i .. not forced, stretched nor trite ... this one has resurrected me own boyhood dreaming of epic romance and daring chivalry ...oh how many great steeds i rode off to win my lady love ..alas for Shalott's ... tho some say she just sleeps ;) you must miss your Albert .. he obviously is with you still ... really an glad i did not miss this one Christine .. thanks for sharing
E.

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Mr E and the poem was indeed a nod to Tennyson even if I can't spell his heroine's name :) Tennyson a great favourite of Albert. I could recite 52 lines off by heart when I was 12. Can still remember parts today. Albert was a wonderful Grandfather. He had amazing patience. Thank you for leaving your lovely review. All good wishes.

Chris

[Einstein Noodle]

oh my goodness ... he was your Grand Da! how enriching just to know that bit more ... he must have been one in a zillion for you Chris! precious precious precious!

[Chris Shaw]

Oh no dear Sir, Tennyson wasn't my Grandad, but Albert was :)

[Einstein Noodle]

yes...i know ... he opened your eyes to poetry ;))))

[Chris Shaw]

He opened my eyes to Tennyson :)))

[Lydia Shutter]

I don't know who your Albert was, but I had an Uncle Albert and this made me think of him. The rhythm and rhyme in this one is flawless. Albert should be thanked by us all since he inspired you to write and we reap the benefits! Just lovely. Lydi**

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Lydi**. Albert, my paternal Grandfather. Pleased you enjoyed the read and I will be thankful all my life for being pointed in the right direction.

Chris

[Dave]

Christine - I really liked this. I admire your ability to rhythm and rhyme. I wish I weren't so lazy. I might try it myself. Thank you.

Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

It isn't easy to get the beat, but once you have captured that drum, it sticks in your head. Your comments always appreciated Dave. Many thanks.

Chris

[Norman 223]

Once you have been convinced that poetry sticks in the memory more than prose, it is a love that is with you for life. Everyone at school hated Shakespeare and "Speech Training", but I would take pride in memorising whole passages , because of the rhythm and metre. As a result of the encouragement from the English Master. the interest has never left me, but as I cannot compete at a classical level,I resort to my present less demanding approach.
Your poem reminds me ,however, that it is the influence of older people that can change our whole outlook, if we are prepared to listen.
Norman

[Chris Shaw]

You are so right Norman. Memorising the lines, the rhythm of the drumbeat hooks you for life. Started early with me thanks to Albert's love of Tennyson. He won a scholarship to a Blue Coat School, but was unable to go because his parents couldn't afford the shoes and uniform. Appreciate your visits.
.
Chris

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

The gift of poetry is priceless to the soul... I know it has been therapeutic outlet for me whenever I need it.

[Chris Shaw]

Indeed it is Cowboy, no greater gift have I been given. Many thanks for your visit.

Chris

[Anjeline]

Beautifully written and expressed

[Chris Shaw]

Hello Anjeline, pleased you enjoyed the read. Many thank yous for your visit.

Chris

[duck]

love of those near to you and just as big your love for poetry which is clearly written. albert has a good gift.

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks duck. Yes love for poetry and family.

Chris

[Mrudula Rani]

This brought tears of longing, Chris. My grandfather ( mom's dad) used to cast a spell magic on us kids with his stories. A beautiful picture of memories you have painted with you exquisite poetry. Absolutely wonderful.

[Chris Shaw]

Dear Mrudula thank you so much for your lovely review. My grandparents were very special to me. You obviously held your Grandfather in much affection.

Chris

[Mrudula Rani]

My grandparents were very involved in our bringing up, I totally understand your special connection and the immense love you have for them. I am in love with your beautiful poem, Querida Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

Aw, thank you Mrudula you have made my day :)