At the Harbour - Renaissance

Out at daybreak to the sun

Seas are drifting glass

The tides were turning to the storm

Winds were moving fast

Women waiting at the harbour

Silent stand around

Weather storms another day

For men the sea had found

Fishermen were laying nets

The barrels spread the bait

The seagulls warning echoed round

Winds that wouldn’t wait

People gathered at the harbour

Waiting for the tide

Eyes half closed against the spray

And tears they cannot hide

Shadows falling at the harbour

Women stand around

Weather storms another way

For men the sea have drowned

Hulls were creaking crashing sails

Rains were slating down

The oilskins flapping, decks awash

Slanting turning round

Thunder roaring at the harbour

Women drawn in fear

Huddle up to wait the time

And pray the sky will clear

Howling winds and the raging waves

Cracked upon the boats

And torn from safety, torn from life

Men with little hope

Ghostly echoes at the harbour

Whispering of death

Women weeping holding hands

Of those they still have left

Shadows falling at the harbour

Women stand around

Weather storms another way

For men the sea have drowned