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

[Onlyme]

Picturesque images came flooding into my mind. And a lovely journey into your thoughts and words Chris. Delightful beautiful to savour and enjoy. Thanks for sharing Chris.

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Dawn. Pleased you enjoyed this one.

Chris

[Ken Simm.]

This is a beautiful song Christine. I can hear it over the waves.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you so much Ken. All good wishes.

Chris

[AYVID N]

An outstanding poem Chris. It blends the beauty of the place with memories of the past. As always, your word choice and rhyming captivates your reader and takes them vividly to Portland. I’d love to visit, some day.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks DIVYA, it is in Dorset, a very beautiful part of our country. Thank you so much for visiting.

Chris

[AYVID N]

You’re most welcome Chris. Always a joy to read your poetry 🌷

[kentuck14]

Nice meditation on place and time. What part of England is this scene?

Tom

[Chris Shaw]

Weymouth, Dorset looking out to sea and Portland. Many thanks Tom. I appreciate your visit.

Chris

[MsJewel]

Your descriptions are so beautifully vivid and your words so calming. A very enjoyable read. Just beautiful :) Julie

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks Julie for your lovely response. Hope all is good with you.

Chris

[MsJewel]

My pleasure. Happy New Year :) Julie

[duck]

very vivid images at being by the sea in some sort or port. can smell the sort and hear the waves and with dark drawing in feeling very aware. enjoyed this poem and you done so well to set the scene.

[Chris Shaw]

You summed it up well duck. Pleased you enjoyed the read and smelt the salt. All good wishes.

Chris

[Jade]

Wow, you write with a wonderful imagery, i enjoyed this write

[Chris Shaw]

Hello Brandie Jade, thank you for responding. I do appreciate your visits.

Chris

[Phill Oz O'fee]

Ah now - this stirs some memories! A poetic delight to read upon, reflect and enjoy the imagery of the write! Well done Chris - very nice indeed... :-) ps - I believe I have a picture of the lighthouse on my profile page!

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Phill and I will take a peek at your profile page. That lighthouse has fond memories for me. All good wishes for the week-end.

Chris

[jacob erin-cilberto]

you allow us to visit this place through your words...a myriad of vivid imagery...
so nicely done, Chris.

it is good to read you again.

j.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Jacob. We've missed your poetry too.

Chris

[Dave]

I enjoy your picturesque descriptions of the sea and its surroundings. Though I've never been there I can easily picture Portland in my mind. Of course being originally from down the shore makes it easier. We had the huge Absecon Lighthouse just blocks from where we lived.

Take care - Dave

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you Dave, pleased my words took you to that place. A beautiful part of English scenery. All good wishes.

Chris