Poem: The Murals

Painted murals portrayed on brick
recall the essence of our lives
History captured on coloured walls
ensures our past and present thrives.

Muralists come from far and near
to rekindle history at dawn's first light
They toil under watchful eye on scaffolds high
labouring often into night.

Hockey legends stand tall and gaunt
imaged clear on giant-sized tigerish walls
Side by side with other regal landmarks
overlooking market stalls.

Uniformed members of our Forces
face a legion of admirers from the past
Colours blend in myriad splendour
a window on the best at last.

Swallows sketched on stationary walls
point towards a surplus of water white and clear
Settlers followed in the steps of Champlain
and farmed the land with hope and fear.

Curious pilgrims pause to view
the saintly lady adorned in grey
Immaculately conceived through skilful artistry
in stately holy church-like way.

Fond and hardy memories are recalled
of ice and bread delivered door-to-door
In rain and sleet and broiling sun
on streets first lighted then and now forevermore.

Citizens and visitors retrace history
on paved and narrow well-worn trail
Memories are harvested and cherished once again
lest the sands of time run out and fail.

Gary Howard
Pembroke ON