A mug of té an’ soda bread,
freshly baked an’ butter spread.
A rake of eggs, a pinch of salt,
to face the cold, a ball of malt.
“Take care yerself me darlin’ man,
be broth therein yer billycan.
I’ll pray ye well, I’ll wait the day.”
An’ she did kiss me, “Fare yer way.”
Me hat, me boots, a heavy coat
where crow, the fox, the mountain goat.
Me cane, me pipe an’ loyal mutt,
o’er stock an’ stone an’ full me gut.
An early lamb, a slaughtered ewe,
them cussed curs, what ills they do.
The scattered flock a yon an’ nigh
an’ hectic we, the mutt and I.
To roundin’ up an’ breakin’ bales
in heavy snows an’ yowlin’ gales.
As cold as sure as fades the light
an’ pray we home afore the night.
What doin’s, done, we on our way,
all fed an’ penned the flock an’ stray.
The early lamb we’ll care at home,
we’ll keep her warm an’ nay alone.
Need hardy be, when all be said
or winter’s harms would see ye dead.
Pray, e’en to home be tough our lot,
in weathers fierce, in worries got.
Come into night be footin’ wise,
a find me way with weary eyes.
Nay stars be ’bout, as black as pitch,
a cruel a beast is winter’s bitch.
Hail yonder light, a welcome be,
’neath thatch an’ stove, a ghrá mo chroí.
“Come in, begad, me darlin’ man,
yer coat, yer hat, yer billycan.”
“The tub be full an’ soapin’ hot,
come scrub ye down, ye’ve done yer lot.
Pray, rid ye of yer sweat an’ grime,
God bless the toil, me darlin’ mine.”
“Betake yerself the table set,
pray, hungry ye, I surely bet.
Be taters, aye, an’ plenty too,
a steamin’ pot of beefin’ stew.”
“An’ how’s about a ball of malt
to warm ye from the cold assault.”
She fed the mutt an’ cared the lamb
an’ poured for me another dram.
She stoked the embers, stirred the pot.
“Be careful now the plate be hot.”
She rushed about in merriment,
the lamb, the mutt an’ me content.
-
Author:
Tony Grannell (
Offline) - Published: August 2nd, 2025 04:39
- Category: Unclassified
- Views: 5
- Users favorite of this poem: sorenbarrett, Poetic Licence, Friendship, Cheeky Missy
Offline)
Comments3
A poem that speaks to me of ritual in love as well as daily chores. It is what we can depend upon and what gives structure to a chaotic and difficult life. Love is dependable just as a schedule is as a season is as the cycle of life is. In this poem the woman's care for her mate reflects that dependability that some might label care, others love. It has a very homey feel to it where two old people have worn to fit each other. Another lovely write.
Hello, Soren,
Yes, indeed, it is a poem of love, a love for each other and their love of animals in the severity of mid winter where warmth prevails. Your lovely response is very much appreciated.
Wishing you all the very best.
Tony.
You are most welcome my friend
A very warm and loving write, two people who have worked, lived and struggled together through all weathers and seasons. Each contributing in their own way to the ball of love, knowing they can depend and rely on each other to always be there, and we must not forget the dog, wonderfully enjoyable read
Hello, Tobani,
O yes, don't forget the dog and the lamb. Your response is lovely and most appreciated.
Fond regards,
Tony.
You are very welcome
Well written,to me, your poem depicts a rustic life in the countryside, characterized by warmth, care, and the struggles of daily farm life during winter. It highlights the bond between the poet and their loved one, as well as their connection to nature and the animals they care for.
Hello, Friendship,
Yes, indeed, that unbreakable bond ship whatever hardships they must endure. Thank you ever so much for your lovely review, very kind of you.
Fond regards,
Tony.
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