Birkenhead
lyrics by:
Ultan Mulhern
Written
on Oct 19, 2016
The daily clank and grind of the docks A beckoning sound for men who toiled Families of workers with calloused hands Trudged down to the river, lunch wrapped in foil Wheels turn in circles, more orders await There’s ships to be built, wealth to create This was a town that looked out on the world Its horizons lay far, its vision unblinkered Making rich men richer, and working men proud With inventors and builders, creators and thinkers Wheels turn in circles, the stars were aligned Merchants grew wealthy as draughtsmen designed A sadness hangs over this once vibrant town Shopfronts are boarded in streets that had thrived Ashen-faced people, eyes lifeless and cold Bereft of ambition, a lost yearning to strive Wheels turn in circles, new rivals were feared Ships were built elsewhere, work disappeared But grey clouds will pass, a bright age will dawn The rebirth of endeavour rippling over the river There’s energy to harness, and skills to acquire Fresh minds to ignite, and success to deliver Wheels turn in circles, good fortune will follow There’s a future to build, a better tomorrow
Tags: encouraging, hope,
Add Comment
Cecilia Crasto commented:
Great poem, you have summed up exactly what is happening in the world today-the divide between rich and poor is a big problem and we can only hope for a better future.
Josh Rogan
commented:
Unless there is a Birkenhead in the States, then I assume this is 'over the water' from me, here in Liverpool. Good observation, well put, but, as with our side, things WILL get better.
Geoffrey Brewer
commented:
A powerfully descriptive and well constructed poem with a positive message. You have a great, creative skill with words.
Ultan Mulhern
commented:
Thanks for the encouraging comments, everyone. Much appreciated!
John Pegg
commented:
I've never been to Birkenhead but I almost feel like I know it from your poem. A great outlook on the future convincingly conveyed in your poem. Very much enjoyed.
Frank Hornby .
commented on Nov 11, 2018 at 5:13pm
I must admit Birkenhead does seem a bit lifeless, ever since Cammell Lairds wound down its ship building ....but as for "ashen faced people,with eyes lifeless, and cold"....no merseysiders eyes can ever be described as lifeless, and cold........good poem though...
