Remembering Portland

A walk along a bridle path

unveils a vista of blue sea.

A sweep of ocean, silver streaked

which spans the stretch one's eyes can see.

So many ribbons flare and glare,

they stream and gleam in burnished light.

Small boats are anchored in the bay

and Portland Island is in sight.

The lighthouse hidden from my view,

illuminates the seas when dark

and saves the vessels from the tides. 

Too often shipwrecks left their mark.

A balmy ev'ning, water's calm.

The shingle margins are of gold

and all that's here is memorised

to resurrect in winter's cold.

Reviews

[Norman 223]

Having spent a number of holidays around Dorset, I have seen the changes over the years, due to erosion and development, but the "warm"Jurassic"colours never change.
My only visit to Portland Bill was many years ago, however, before it became the "adventure centre" . Thankfully, your more peaceful description reminds me of those times, Chris.

Norman

[Chris Shaw]

I climbed to the top of Portland Bill with my Grandad when I was nine. I've never forgotten that adventure. We took our own grandchildren there a couple of years ago. My granddaughter climbed to the top with my husband. Quite nostalgic for me. I like Dorset very much and the Jurassic coastline is great for fossil hunting. Thank you Norman.

Chris

[barleygirl]

Beautiful ocean port scene with gently bobbing imagery. I had fun reading your reviews from Brits (I adore) who know the place of which you write. We have two Portland's here in the USA, one on each coast. Similar scenes could be described! This makes me want lobster with drawn butter! *wink! wink!* Fondly, Margie

[Chris Shaw]

You are making me hungry Margie. Thank you for visiting.

Chris

[‘Thoughts In Time..]

Beautiful memories beautiful scenery- must be beautiful in sight- lovely to remember so vividly 🌹

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Kelly, yes it is a lovely place. Dorset has wonderful scenery.

Chris

[Gee]

Sound idyllic Christine. Have visited Studland Bay a few times, staying on the cliff top over looking the sea, tis a beautiful place.
Your words put me back there :))

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Gee. Dorset is lovely. Have spent many holidays there and hope to again.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

Amazing use of description. You took me with you to the wonderful place dear Chris. The sea could tell some stories. Thank you for sharing the amazing poetry.
Coyote

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Coyote for your lovely review. All good wishes.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

Was my pleasure dear Chris and you are welcome.

[Lydia Shutter]

You've magically transported us there with your words, Chris. I have told you before, but I will again...the rhythm and rhyme is just perfect. It is such a joy to read your poetry. Lydi**

[Chris Shaw]

So pleased you enjoyed the read Lydi**. Thank you for your kindness.

Chris

[Eilis]

I love the lull of this, Chris. Your meter is fantastic. It has a lovely classical feel.

Being a cancer, I always feel myself drawn to water. At least that’s how I reason the pull. Especially as I live far inland and must drive hours to reach the ocean. But, I always wish to be there, or in some other capacity near water. So, naturally, your subject matter appealed to me. And you painted the scene so beautifully.

I have a great love/fascination for the European landscapes I’ve read so much of, and grown up watching on travel programs. I’ve never actually seen them in person, so I loved encountering it here through the eyes of a native. Just lovely.

[Chris Shaw]

Hello Eilis. I too have a water sign, pisces is mine. I love everything to do with water. We have the river Thames a couple of miles away and the ocean can be reached in just over an hour. I love the strong light near the coast and sunlight on water enriches my soul. Thank you so much for reviewing and sharing.

Chris

[Julie McCarthy (juliesp..]

ah this is beautiful the wording and descriptions beautiful
my bro in law lives in portland in vic australia. I have never been there. Yours sounds lovely

[Chris Shaw]

Portland in Dorset, a beautiful place Julie. Thank you for your visit.

Chris

[LazerRays]

Ahahaha, I smile because in Maine, we have a Portland that's on the coast. Beautiful place there with a pretty beach, shipyards and lighthouses! I'm going to stay content and happy with my portland, but I'm sure the Portland you're describing is nice too :D
a thoughtful ode to Portland! It's always nice to write about a place that means a lot to us.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Sarah. Portland a popular name it appears. Many thanks for checking this one out. Your visit much appreciated.

Chris

[Lorry]

Nicely captured Chris. It is a part I have never seen, but the mention of lighthouse pricked my ears.
I had a deep fascination and romantic notion of living in a lighthouse one day, until I was invited to one and saw that it would drive me batshit crazy... Okay, crazier.
At least in a house I dont have to run up and down stairs, getting ever dizzier, every time I to get the thing I forgot to bring to where I want it :)
Such a vivid picture you paint with your words, sharing memories of the places that mean most to you.

[Chris Shaw]

Hi Lorry, light houses not for the claustrophobic :) Thank you for your visit. All the best.

Chris