Wexford Shores (Dedicated to Nonie)

by Christopher H.Peake

When I stand in County Wexford looking out to sea

I thank the Lord that he made Ireland and a little space for me

There’s a touch of blue midst the white clouds that swirl around

Whilst I am there taking snapshots on Wexford’s ancient ground

I think of the many sailing ships that sank off this county’s rugged coast And wonder if on a wild winter’s night - could one return as a ghost?
I think too of the dead sailors and the families they left behind I feel sometimes the Lord and the storms he created, they are so unkind

There’s many a Wexford town and village lost more than one son at sea Whilst they were out in their fishing boats catching fish for folk like you and me

In the days some time ago when you could buy a piece of fish for half a crown

Did you stop to say a silent pray tufferforever: for fishermen so that they would not drown

The fishermen from the little ports around the coastline of Irelands lovely isle

Have a tough life.

A friend drowns.

They search for him and cannot raise a smile

A Londoner, William Whiting, in 1860 wrote”Eternal Father, strong to save....”
So when you’re warm in bed on a stormy night think of the sailors battling with each wave.

« back