On A Westerly There Fly I

(Today in the UK it is Mothering Sunday. This poem is dedicated to my mum, and the many like her. Only one designated visitor allowed for a visit in the near future. How cruel is that for family?)

so far away mum

so far away

where the screeching of seagulls

can be heard in the bay

pick up the phone mum

pick up the phone

i know you are there mum

sitting alone

your back to the window

in your comfy blue chair

with our photos beside you

and your hazel eyed stare

that faces the wall mum

where a framed landscape shows

the Babbacombe Downs mum

in a soft autumn glow

but still you don't answer

and my smile's out of sorts

it's turned upside down mum

i'll keep the call short

if only you'll answer

though my fear speaks to me

your memory is fading

you can't find a key

if i phone you back later

there's no telling then

and i haven't a clue mum

when i'll see you again

your care home's a fortress

while covid a curse

and the killer exposed now 

can only get worse

each time that i call you

it turns to dismay

but i'll never give up mum

that's all i can say

Reviews

[Dylan Macadham]

Hi Chris, I can sure identify with this, my Dad being in a care home during the lockdowns :(
I see him once a week now (a 75 mile drive) and read to him. Usually he's in such a sound sleep I can't wake him up, and I'm hoping he hears the rhythm of my voice.
...Your silent dismay, your anxious not-knowing, the unsettling ritual of it, is movingly palpable, and your writing and rhyming elegant as always~

[Chris Shaw]

Thanks Dylan for your understanding review. You too, clearly understand the frustration of having a dear one in a nursing or residential home during lockdown. And that's without the added worry of their condition and not being able to visit. Pleased you are now able to visit your Dad. . Your voice must be a comfort to him. My mum is over 200 miles away, so I am not able to see her often and her ability to speak on the phone has now gone too :( We do what we can. Thanks for checking this older poem out and giving it an airing.

Chris

[Dylan Macadham]

Yes, we do what we can, as we glimpse our own future ...

[Cyprian Van Dyke]

Wow, this write is wow. I love the sentiment and endearment and poetry of it all. I followed each word like footprints on this white page and wished it would never end. Wonderfully explained and expressed, Christine, tyfs.

[Chris Shaw]

Many thanks for your kind review Cyprian. Good to have you visit. All the best.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

I used to call my father, every Friday at 8 pm. We would discuss everything and anything. At 8 pm now. I need to hear his voice still. I understand the poetry dear Chris. We need to hear the voices of the people who loved us. Thank you for sharing the amazing poetry and your thoughts.
Coyote

[Chris Shaw]

How you must still miss your Father Coyote. Fridays at 8.00pm, must send you into reflective mood. Thank you for your understanding.

Chris

[Coyote Poetry]

The good people tattoo their faces into our hearts. You are welcome dear Chris.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

So extremely sad when we cannot be with loved ones who are aging...the Covid has meant so much separation for families...
so much pain.
j.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you J for your understanding. It is painful. Brings tears, but I am not alone and that helps.

Chris