The Pier

The Pier juts lifeless to the sea
so desolate and forlorn
Splashed and sprayed by pounding waves
With its girders rusted, worn.

Here and there a poster flopping
Relating to some past event
Sea birds roosting in the arcades
That once knew life and merriment

Shattered windows,flaking stanchions
Windswept doorways, weathered planks
Weakened by each tidal upsurge
Evoking further creaks and clanks

What memories you could tell us
You ghosts that linger there
Of countless voices echoing
In the pavilion, stark and bare

One can almost hear the sounds
Of laughter, play and talk
The pointed arms to distant ships
From those that trod your walk

Then there were the anglers
Complete with fishing gear
Braving wind and weather
Throughout each passing year

But time and tide, wind and wave
Has brought the moment near
When the music of the sea rings out
The death knell of the Pier.