douglas mcclarty - poems - poemhunter.com

Poetry Series

Douglas McClarty- poems -

Publication Date: 2015

Publisher:Poemhunter.com - The World's Poetry Archive

Douglas McClarty() Born In Northern Ireland. I live near the beautiful Causeway Coast. On a clearDay I can see the Scottish Islands, Isla, Mull, both my parents where born inScotland, met and married in Northern Ireland. They had eleven children, sixgirls and five boys. I used to write poems when I was a primary school and nowat the age of 65 I decided to exercise the brain cells and decided to write poetry.Most of my poems are about life's experiences.

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A Boyhood Journey I set a upon a journey,along the river pathFollowing the winding waters, past Mountsandel RathWalking between the bridgesthe Coleraine clock struck oneI was getting terribly hot,walking in the summer sun.So I sat on the river vergebeside the old grove shoreAnd thought about the ships,that alas are there no moreThe Overton, The Silverthorn,Maythorn to name a fewNow probably scraps of metalmade into something new.Further down the riverthe railway bridge coming into sightI remember steam trains crossing over,during day and night.Sometimes the centre bridgewould lift to let ships sail on throughBut now the years have pastthese ships a very few.Cul Rathain port has only ghostsalong its old docksideThe busy trade that brought shipshere slowly, slowly died.Beyond the bridge above a ridgeBallycairn mount in viewI stood on top many daysadmiring the Coleraine sights I knew.St Patrick's church with its majestic spiresreaching to the skyThen I looked down on the little boatsat Seatons as I passed byJust one more place I wanted to gobefore the end of this fine dayA journey's end to a childhood haunt


that place was Dougan's bay. Douglas McClarty


A Child Of The Troubles. I was a child of the troublesGot to know about bombs and bulletsEmpty parked cars were avoidedIf you were a child of the troubles Tit for tat murder on both sidesWake up to another bloody dayAfraid sometimes to go out and playIf you were a child of the troubles Worried always about my mum and dadTo see them get home I was always gladInnocents were killed in so many townsIf you were a child of the troubles. Some of my childhood friends didn't talk to meBecause they were the other side you seeIt's all there fault or could it be oursIf you were a child of the troubles. Yet I remembered when we all seemed to be freeWhen we played together Seamus, Paddy and meAt a time when our names didn't condemn us to blameIf you were a child of the troubles. Both sides trying to score more killing pointsA grotesque game played out each dayWhy should they make us all payIf you were a child of the troubles Somehow one day the killing all suddenly stoppedThen it was just shouting about who was to blameIt's much better than bombs, bullets and bloodIf you were a child of the troubles. Douglas McClarty


A Fairy Poem I walked across the meadowOn a moonlit silver nightI passed the bridge abovethe ridgeAs I searched for thefairy siteTwo barn owls hootedOn a treeThey flapped their wingsto beckon meTo sit on a flat stone'Twas the fairies throne. In the circle I spottedThree squirrels and a ratAn otter wearing a funny hatThere were geese a foxand strange, some hensWe all waited for the fairiesOf the glens.On a grassy spot a moon beamOf light, lit up this sacred siteFairies appeared, it was justlike a dreamTheir beauty was like nothingI've ever seen They played music andhummed a mystical tuneThey danced and kissed meBy the light of the moonWhen the golden dawnStole the silvery nightI awoke it was daytimeNo fairies in sightAll alone on a coldslab of stoneI scribbled on it,this fairy poem.


Douglas McClarty


A Gate The story of that rusting gateThat's stood here longer than meWho thought, talked and plannedWhere this fields gate would be. The shape, the size, the costWho measured the length and heightAnd built the grand pillars of stoneTo hang their thoughts, a gate. Who forged the steel to make itAnd hammered rivets in placeTo create a unique masterpieceThe smithy, with a blackened face? I have seen a Rembrandt, Monet,And others hanging at the TatePicasso, Da Vinci and Van GoghBut never this beautiful art, a gate. Douglas McClarty


A Lovers Dream Many a journey home I've looked at KnocklaydeI could tell its mood by the colours God madeOn a sunny day it displayed its many shades of greenYet long winter days looked grey, a desolate scene Some day it's my dream to climb to the topJust to sit there looking, relaxing on a grassy spotLooking at the fields of Ireland, savioring the viewBut more important, I want to sit there with you Together we'll climb each step hand in handA journey unknown to my love, be unplannedWhen we get to the top, I'll bend on my kneeWill be the perfect place to ask 'will you marry me' Douglas McClarty


A Moroccan Heaven. I wandered through the MedinaIn the old town of TangiersLooking for the Riad, ArousI will meet you at cafe Paris, he saidI sit there drinking strong Maroc coffeeWaiting for a stranger, to lead the wayI have no rose in my lapel or sign to tellBut I look foreign among this local crowdA voice behind said are you looking for Arous.Please follow me I am you honored guideThe streets are bustling with noisy tradersTrying to sell me their many treasuresThe Amman begins the daily call to prayeras I follow my guide through narrow streetsIt's hot, humid and smelly, but excitingI feel I am on a time machine transported backBurka covered ladies pass me by, why I askThere is a darkness in this, my inner soul cry'sBut there is also a beauty in their shape and formIn a narrow empty street I stand at a large doorWelcome to Arous, he says as the door opensThe courtyard before me is a lush green oasisI have arrived at this tranquil palacea Moroccan heaven. Douglas McClarty


A Poet To Be. I'm no literary expertstill struggling to spellStringing two wordsA challenge for me.But I'm determinedTo be a poet, writer maybeNot to write about daffodilsThough I wish I couldOr to write about miceMaybe auld lang syne.But made a start thinkingAbout what I'd writeTo impress the likes of youCause you're important.If I'm to be successfulI need to be profoundWords with the right soundTry and make them rhymeNo not all of the time.Let you look into my mindWould worry about this.Because of what you'd findA half wit trying to writeWhat could be calledA load of, can't use that word.So I will value all opinionsFrom literary experts not like meOn how and what to convey.That'll brighten, enlightenSomeone in every wayMake their day and maybe nightWith words from a poet to be. Douglas McClarty Douglas McClarty


A Rainbow As I walked along Marblehill strandWatching rolling waves on the sandWas wet and dull a bleak grey dayAs I stopped and looked across the bay In a moment the clouds began to partAnd within a single beat of my heartI witnessed a spectacular colour showA magnificent shimmering rainbow Douglas McClarty


A Real Cuckoo I heard a cuckoo this morningIt was as clear as the morning airCalling across a wooded valleyWas the first I have ever heardApart from a clock in our front roomThat was many years agoBut this was a real cuckoo I heardBecause my watch said five past nine. Douglas McClarty


A Simple Smile A simple pleasure, costs nothingCan change the blackest dayIt means so much to lonely soulsAnd we all have it, to give away I stand, stare and think sometimesWondering, is it just because I'm oldI, m invisible, a nothing to the youngNot worth the effort of just one smile. Then, my minds mist lifts, remindingThere is a price we have to payIt's not free, it just occurred to me.Give one, and you might get one, free Douglas McClarty


A Spanish Secret I was offered the secret of IberiaThere it was offered clear in printWas brought from a field of acornsAnd it would not cost me a mint I was no clandestine agent or spyJust really hungry and extremely dryThis strange offer to good to be trueWas now on my plate ready to chew For the secret offered was a bit of a pigWas the restaurant waiter taking the ligNo, It was truly a Spanish secret surpriseA piece of pork served with French fries.Yummy. Douglas McClarty


A Unique Family You have been with us all this timeWhy do you want to leave us nowThink of our past, our problems we solvedJust crazy, leaving home to live on your ownHow do you think we feel, about us splitting upWe shared everything, but do you want more?The wise have heard empty promises before. Please take your time, think all of this throughOur union will never be the same without youI know you will still be there, just next doorBut why can't we just stay as we were beforeThe four of us may have our different waysBut our needs in the past have made us one. We are a unique family, respected and proudPulling us apart, leaving for a promise unclearCause us all so much turmoil this coming yearAt this time with the problems we all faceSit down think where we have been togetherDon't split us up for others selfish ambitions. Douglas McClarty


An Emerald Gem How many eyes have lookedat William Bald's creationHow many have travelled thismasterpiece built by hungry souls.This Scotsman cast his eyesupon the stunning Antrim glens,the causeway and beyondHis dream laid out for all to see,explore, to enjoy each magic mileThis priceless unique treasureA true emerald island gem. Douglas McClarty


Another Year Like the end of a journey, going homeA year, each day filled with sadness or joyNow drifting to that final farewellMany on last years journey sadly not hereWe are, so celebrate, have a happy new year. Douglas McClarty


Away With The Fairies If you put an earto this ancient groundYou might just heara mystical soundOnly on nightswhen there's a full moonThey will play and singtheir haunting tuneThe Uilleann pipes,a harp and a flutethere could bea boran a fiddle and a luteThe fairies are singingand dancing belowA place were no personis welcome to goIf you venture nearthis fairy fort, bewareNo harm will cometo those who just stareBut for others who disturbthese fairy sitesthey could be cursedwith sleepless nightsSo be still and listendon't make a soundAnd forever you'll be drawnto a fairy mound. Douglas McClarty


Bad Memories Yesterday's pain can hunt us stillBitter memories, lurking deepWaiting to disturb sweet dreamsWhile you struggle to sleep The darkness deepens the painAwaking, laying bare all beforeYesterday's secrets, bad newsReplayed again, black is the night Thoughts under lock and keyIn the deepest recesses of the mindWhy is it unlocked, can't see whyAm I not the owner of this key. Sometimes takes two mindsto close and lock these doorsThose bitter, sad momentscan be put so safely awayJust to awaken share allWith someone you cherishSomeone you trust, a truefriend. Douglas McClarty


Bad Reflection I watched two ring doves sit togetherThey came to visit almost everydayOther birds came and fed aloneBut they were always differentTwo very shy lovers as one, alwaysI often thought how and where they metHow they planned and built their nestThen one day there was just oneI watched from my windowIt seemed lost sitting alone, laterI found two wings like a small angelImprinted on my kitchen windowBelow the dove lay still on the ground. Douglas McClarty


Black Days I lived in the most dangerouspart of the worldAt first I felt alone. I was petrified,but I survived.The bombs the bulletskilling my friends, neighboursBullets flying, bombs exploding,the eve of destruction.But I survived I survived,I wasn't, ready to dieIt made me wonder how evil growssprinkled by hate But there could be a new generationwith an explanationWhy did it happen,is there a cure for diseased corrupt minds.I just had to move onthis long and scary winding road.Things just looked very coldI'll maybe die before I'm oldEach day I become more immuneto what's on my TVLiving in this dead mans townoh god I long to be free. Could they not see nobody's rightif everybody's wrongTwo sides kept singingtwo very different victory songs.Through this all I keep lookingfor the shoots of sanityCan we all not live like others, eat, live and die in peace.Or watch their apprenticesbuilding the walls of hateI now just live day by dayhoping their walls will tumble.


Douglas McClarty


Butlin's The magazine showed butlins campsBut was further than the moonFor the pounds and shilling to get us thereWas never coming soon So I dreamed someday we go togetherTo this holiday camp in heavenWay Me brothers and my sistersAnd my best friend at school called Kevin. But the milkman, butcher and grocertook up the holiday potAnd left Ma and Da in a bit of a spotButlin's this year was a definite not My magazine grew thinnerAs It disappeared up the flueLike my thoughts of seeing Butlin'sMy dreams were getting few. Dad announced that summerWe would all be on a tripTo a big red bus outside PortrushSo we packed our holiday kit. Ballyreagh was certainly not Butlin'sBut it gave us all the thrillsAs we played in the golden sand.And fished in the deep blue pools. The big red bus was our summer homeA house with windows and wheels.It's final stop was a grassy spotLooking out to sea. I never thought of Butlins againAs my brothers sisters and meLived that summer in that big red busAt Ballyreagh...... by the sea.


Douglas McClarty


Canuelo The evening sun was falling behind MaromaWhen we reached the Pueblo CanueloWe had journeyed through the winding goat tracksAmong the thousands of ripened olive treesThe smell of the occasional orange groveMingled in the fragrant Andulusian airGoats and some wild dogs drankAs we crossed the gentle flowing river bedNo sign post to guide the traveller hereJust follow the tracks that lead upwardThe blue sparkling waters of the lake appear belowAs we reach the white village of PerianaOld men sitting along the narrow streets waveOlive trees give way to bright yellow broomBougainville adds to the blinding vibrant coloursAs we struggle on a rough stoney winding trackOur destination now in sight beautiful Canuelo.We sip Tinto Verano on the Peublo's terrazzoLike the eagles we look down on a paradiseMountains surround the blue Vinuela lakeNow going to sleep as the sunsets in Andulacia. Douglas McClarty


Cape Verde Islands Escape from northern Emerald's icy gripSee Teide slipping away from this shipSailing south to Islands sunny and green.Where dreams ended for unsuspecting soulsNow standing on these balmy rocky shoresI shiver, the thought of once rattling chainsThousands of lost dreams brought hereStripped of freedom, their final journey to hellWhile the Christian church bells rang the NellNow here some of their kindred, smiling, freeThey look at this stranger, they smile at meYou are welcome sir, welcome to Cape Verde. Douglas McClarty


Close To Home. A dark lonely journey I have to travelThe road is rocky, hills go up some downMy destination unclear I wish I really knewI move through this darkness with hope There are many on this road holding my handThey guide and help me face my constant painThough I have time now to look back and reflectOn the others who made this journey and arrived. Douglas McClarty


Cool Grasshopper I saved a Grasshopperfrom the pool todayHe was wet and soggywhen I set him on the clayI swore he was staring at mewhile he got dryThen it occurred to methe suns so hot he'll fryBut one great leap he landedback in the poolHow stupid,this grasshopper wanted to get cool. Douglas McClarty


Could Be Me Just look, what thoughts go through her mindWhen she looks at me, though just glimpsesCould she want to know me moreWhat does she look for that excites her mindDo I fulfill all those sensual thoughts she might haveJust this one chance moment in timeIs that look that smile a sign to meI now feel breathless, could this be trueThis angel with eyes so blue, a faint perfume lingersAs she steps on to the platform and disappearsI am left alone to wonder, Douglas McClarty


Create A Masterpiece. The most perfect art in the worldThat appeals to all the sensesA painting to look at, smell the paint,A book to look at, stir the emotionsMusic to listen to, mixed feelingsNo the most perfect art, a plate of foodI hear it sizzle in my hot ovenI smell the aromas filling the kitchenI see It presented on my white plateI taste this perfect culinary masterpieceI touch while licking my fingers clean. Douglas McClarty


Dad's Life Moscow on the river VolgaWere Jock my dad was bornA proud Scot the son of JohnDouglas was his chosen nameHis eighteenth year he moved from home He travelled south to Carlisle townAnother step in his life's unplanned journeyWith his tradesman's ticket now in hand.The calling came for this young manTo fight for his country in a foreign land. The green fields of France now red with bloodHis countrymen, friends fell in ditches and mudWounded and weary plucked from Dunkirk's shoreHe survived the horror on the beaches of hellBack from the shores of his life's darkest hour. Wounded body and soul the scars of warA young Scot grew strong once againDestiny was calling, a journey unplannedAcross the sea to a green Celtic land.Ireland was this proud Scots new home. From Downhill castle across the Atlantic seaThe sight of Isla, the Mull, feeling closer to homeBut love sought him out dictating life's planThe Castlerock bells rang on a summers dayAnnouncing Jock and Helens love as one. With the passing of war, the blossoms of peaceTwo young married Scots now build a homeLike the season of spring new life is bornSons and Daughters complete their lives.Now both lie in peace looking towards the sea. Douglas McClarty


Day Before Easter At The Zoo Arrived. What will I see today in this maze?As I turn into 'soap powder row', as I call it Last week I called it 'domestos lane'Right cheeks, left cheeks all staring at filled shelves, depleting bank accounts.Temptation around every bend, bargains two for ones, three for ones, sell by dates.Confused, abused by crashing carts, robbed per litre, per gram, per kilo, pears over ripe.The lady with the calculator, calculating the cost per gram, of the Italian Parma ham.I swear the asylum has been emptied, all here Bank holiday appetites, the resurrection, stock up.The second coming, it's obvious, must be at hand. Arrive at the checkout, at least twenty in the queue.Piled up trolleys waiting to hear that continuing blip I almost flatlined as I was handed my final bill.More cash to the charity who packed my 5p bags Pushed my trolley through the chattering crowds.Fresh air at last in the car park? Out of the Zoo How time has past, I'm reminded, there on displayA sixty pound parking ticket, 'have a nice day' Douglas McClarty April 2017. Douglas McClarty


Delusion For days a little birdtapped on my windowUntil I realised,It was chasingit's own reflection.Just wasting its lifeon a false illusion.So I decided to setIt free from delusion.A wooden cat now satInside that window.I thought it's bettera broken heartfor a little whileThan wasting a lifeOn total confusion.How often do wechase our own illusionsThat end in delusionsStop this confusionBuy a cat. Douglas McClarty


Devils Buttermilk I was always fearful, they where like ghosts to meUnknown souls finding their way, but still alive.Now looking back every town had one, two or threeThough not as many as I see now, they were old then Even as a child I remember, most were known by nameThese poor unfortunates brought those at home, shameThey consumed their waiting, wanting families daily bread.Yet now the establishments they haunted are almost dead. More of them stalk the streets, some are violent,I am older now but more fearful, not for me, for them.They consume in packs, pouring bile on to the streetsCreating no go places during their nocturnal activities They may expire younger than those who went beforeThe poison elixir draws them, as if like a liquid magnet.The food of death sold to them, cheap on market shelvesAn endemic epidemic, spread by greedy corporate hands. Douglas McClarty


Dither I'm in a dither should I hesitateWill hang back take my timeBetter being in two minds, they thinkI get flustered and panic in a tizzyReally getting into a crazy stewI'm told I always seem to faff aboutWhen I have to take a small decisionI think it's better, ponder, waver, vacillateIndecision doesn't mean I'll delayJust like to ponder it's just my wayDilly dally, shilly shally that's just meGetting into a flutter when I spend a poundJust been told, ' it's my round' Douglas McClarty


Don'T Chase Nightmares. Don't chase nightmares you might catch upTry chasing sweet dreams that become youYou are the captain of the good ship, your lifePlan the voyage carefully if you want to arriveStorms will follow be certain, but stay calmChallenges on your journey maketh the man.Sail only to shores that fulfil all your dreams Douglas McClarty


Everlasting Beauty. When the beauty of the body begins to fadeWhen we cross the line from young to oldWhen the jet black hair has turned to greyWhen reading the obituary's takes up your dayWhen with every year your waist goes up a sizeWhen you add lots more inches to your thighsWhen you take daily pills for aches and painsWhen you're using makeup to cover varicose veinsWhen you take at least five supplements a dayWhen you're minds forgetful, beginning to strayWhen an old person gets up to give you a seatWhen sitting in company you doze off to sleepWhen Summer turns to Autumn as it will be soRemember, the beauty of your soul doth grow. Douglas McClarty


Fairy Laces. Lying in my bed in the darkest nightI watched with open eyes a sightFairies sat on my summer cherry treeLooking through a window at me I blinked hoping they would all go awayBut no they were there to stare and staySmiling, waving, lots of them sitting in threesSwaying to and fro like branches in a breeze Each one had different coloured clothesOn each lapel they wore a bright green roseLittle red boots with no laces on their tiny feetThey just sat there watching until I fell asleep When I awoke it was a bright summer mornThe trees were bare the fairies had goneWas it a dream I dreamt last nightOr was it my age, my old failing sight. But when Autumn came and Cherry leaves fellI looked at the bare tree there was a story to tellFor high on the tree were I seen many Fairy facesThere was row after row of little red boot laces. Douglas McClarty


Four Bunnies I have no fear of themYet they fear meEven though they situnder my treeOn my green grassthey hop and feedWhen I arrive theytake off at speedYet nature dictatedthey stay with meThese four bunniesrunning freeWhy do they seeme as a threatWhen all I wantIs trusting petsWho whispered intheir bunny earsThat I may be oneof their biggest fearsYet sheep and cowssome bigger than meThey accept, no fear, yetThe sight of me theytake off and flee. Douglas McClarty


Ganges Sitting on a Steam train, going to BelfastLeaving Coleraine Station I sit alone in fearFor I have sold my life I'm just in my fifteen year.No hugs, no kisses no tears from mumI sit alone on this train just feeling numb. I have joined the Navy I accepted the queens half crownI have to make this journey to a place near Ipswich town.Oh god I've sold my life away my freedom has been boughtBut I suppose when you have half of nothing you just accept your lot. I had never travelled far from home and this was new to meI had been on my own to Belfast once but never across the seaNo money in my pocket just a warrant in my handI was now very far away in a very foreign land. The life I knew was dying with every click of the trackFor now I was on this journey there was just no going back.My journey ended at Ganges the ship that became my hellI felt i was trapped in a prison marking time to the bosun, s bell I remember the day the Captain said, have got anything to say,Before we pass punishment, I said for whatYou tried to run away, I just wanted to go home I saidBut six cuts on your buttocks dripping blood on the groundI think it's fair punishment, you accepted our half crown. My fifteenth year has since long past yet I still feel the painLashed by a faceless captain was far from being humane.Looking back has made me stronger I value everyday. I'm freeTo do, to go, to breath and just to know my life's controlled by me. Douglas McClarty


Gathering Spuds Outside our house in drumard DriveSandy, s horse stands tired and stillThe five shilling coal bag is heaved aloftAs he shuffles towards our empty shedTonight we, ll feel the glow of heatBefore we, re put upstairs to sleep. The window panes are white with frostOur breath like woodbine without the smellFades as we fall asleepWe dream of wearing out our shoesOn the slides we made on the icy street. At six o'clock I here that shoutIts time to get up, get out.To gather pretties from from frosty fields.The farmers waiting near Kyle's braeTo hire lucky gathers for the day.Will I be taken, I could earn ten bobOr be sent home without a job. The trailer bumps along the darkened roadThe straw I sit on is cold and wet.The drizzling rain begins to clear.As we reach the fields at the suns first ray.The start of my first back breaking day. My leaking shoes squelch and squeakAs mud gathers round my freezing feet.Gathering spuds is no easy taskBut ten bob can lighten the load for sandy, s horse.And I could have the warmest feetOn drumard drives icy street. Douglas McClarty


Getting Old Sit me down in a comfy chairWith a blanket round my bony legsJust let me sleep, sometimes stareFor I'm getting old and very tiredJust want to sit with my thoughtsMake conversation short with meAnd perhaps an occasional cup of tea.See my grandchildren for a little whileThey always manage to make me smilePlease don't feel pity or sorrow for meFor I had like you, days happy, carefreeNow I replay them while I rest and dreamThe past is all all I have now, it would seemFor all my friends and love ones are so fewAs far as visits go I'm now just last in the Que.I sit in a home full of strangers, all like meJust green bottles on the wall, I'm counting. Douglas McClarty


Going Downhill A sad monument of human folly lies crumblingThe wind of time has taken its heart and soulThose who lived here have now departedLeaving a small glimpse of the bishops dream A harp plays softly, the temple looks to seaThe golden beach erased past soft footstepsWere they walked in Downhill summer daysAnd looked back at Shanahan's creation. Above the cliffs Hervey's coach is drawnTo the Lion's Gate from Derry to DemesneThe Snow Leopard's in his arms do dwellNow this bishops monument, a pathetic shell. Douglas McClarty


Going Home A road stretches and seems endlessFor those who never wander farIn life how many steps will they takeFor some, like going to the moonI have journeyed and travelled it, partlyalong its many winding waysBut always returning to where I startedI like the many who set out to roamJust ended up coming back to my home. Douglas McClarty


Gone Fishing A ten pence fishing line and hookwas essentialA pot of juicy black head worms tooAs my brothers friends and me setoff to fish for the dayPromised mum the biggest fish wewould catch for tea.The two posts was our first stop aColeraine popular fishing spotWe heard stories of giant salmoncaught here by, can't remember his nameWe cast our lines and sat, waiting for that tugFour, five, six lines waiting, then suddenlya bite, excitement as the line was pulled inWhat's on the lucky hook, a fluke, salmontrout? , no a wriggle eel.We all hated the slimy slippery things,the bravest retrieved the hook.We went down river to the hot watersand fished for the ugly breamAnd then to the Grove shore to fishfor flukes, but got mores eels.As sun went down, we headed home,No fish for tea,But we would get a big one someday,my brothers, friends and me.Just like..can't remember his name. Douglas McClarty


Good And Bad. In the beginning a God created the canvasThe perfect painting, the perfect worldThe majestic heavens sprinkled with diamondsAnimals two of each kind male And femaleFlowers, plants, trees breathless beautyFood abundant clear water to drink But two of each kind meant bad and goodYing and Yang, Light and Dark and so it was,The scene was now set for war and peaceThe bad destroy, the good repair the canvasWe struggle to achieve that perfect picture againThat beautiful world were good for all prevails. Douglas McClarty


Guests My guests arrive unannouncedWe never speak a wordTheir language not understoodBut then trust and love, no need This feeling I'm told is universalBeing unselfish, gentle, respectfulKnowing each other's boundariesBuilding friendships to cherish Each to give or take, expect nothingArrive and go when they pleaseThey come, knowing I'm hereMy life becomes enlightened When they decide to sing for meIt fills my world with untold treasureI know they spread this joy to othersAlways returning back home to me I have witnessed each generationFor some these journey's sadly endBut then the joy of seeing their new bornThey arrive no invitation necessary, from me. Douglas McClarty


Hair Of The Dog Will it be red or maybe whiteReally can't decide which, tonight, Shiraz or Sauvignon blancDon't matter going to get drunkThe liquid can take worries awayPayback comes the very next dayThough more pleasure than a pillThat second bottle oh God I'm illLast nights party, got carried awayFeel I traded one more precious dayNeed a drink will make me feel goodAnd get me back in a party moodMerlot, Shiraz or Sauvignon BlancGreat life? Being a continual drunk. Douglas McClarty


Heaven Or Hell Was I born in hell or heavenGrey dank freezing depressing daysHunger, struggle just trying to surviveBills to drive me to the depth of despairTaking pills and drink to numb the pain But then, something happens out of the blueI awake feeling different, fresh, aliveI begin to see, to notice what's around meWith each breath of air my life's renewedThere's only one unique me in this world I may have empty pockets or a purseBut I have much much more than someI can hear, I can see I can laugh I can singI have everything I need, I am completeI just need a heavenly open positive mind I can achieve anything I have all the toolsJust need to use them, starting one at a timeThe days can be warm, the sky's blueNo need to struggle just believe in youLeave hell behind, start building your heaven. Douglas McClarty


Home Delivery. Herrings alive fresh hern!Was the call in drumard driveThen the milkman would arriveFollowed by the bread mans cartThe vegetable van on his daily roundThe blockman, coalman selling heatIn the fifties they arrived in our little streetThere was also the ice cream manIn his fancy cartThe man from India selling fashionat the doorThere was the lemonade manfizzy drinks galoreAll brought to our front door.The insurance man he calledonce a weekThis all happened in our wee streetsThe message boy from the grocers storeChickens delivered fresh to be pluckedPeat was sold from a donkey and cartThen one by one they all seemed to goNo fresh herrings to the doorNo milk or buttermilk or fresh daily breadOur home delivery's just went deadNow we walk miles around the culprits storesLooking at two for ones and sell by datesHeavy trolleys pushed to the checkout gatesAnd then they invented home delivery Douglas McClarty


Horse Shoes. Steel poles sometimes, hammeredStanding upright, almost ceremonialSodden boots trod damp soil measuringThe blacksmith provides the horses tools of warThe time is set for this ancient duelSmoke smouldering fagged lips face each otherSome drink the devils brew, vessels tossed asideThe game begins, metal is held in each mans handAiming, precision, tactics, then the clash of steelNo horses hoofs mark this battle ground.Yet their cast offs are littered all around.The victorious take their due prize of warLucky trophies, sometimes found, above their doors. Douglas McClarty


I Killed A Rook I killed a Rook that sat high on a treeI watched it fall unto the forest floorIt lay still no sound it would fly no moreI killed that Rook lying on the forest floor The Rooks that now sit so high on the treesLook down on me I can feel a chill in the breezeThey knew it was me who killed that RookYes he killed the Rook lying on the forest floor It was neither a friend or foe when I killed this RookA life I wasted, shortened, yes it was the one I tookThey sit high judging me as they all gather in the treesWas him who killed the Rook that once flew in the breeze. The trust I once had with the Rooks in the treesIs now gone, it's dead like falling Autumn leavesSo now and for as long as I live, they'll never forgiveFor I was that man who had the power, to let a Rook live. Douglas McClarty


In The Dark. Only nights I see them, like twisting snakesEyes sparkling like bright winter starsThey twist sometimes, but always pass me byThough others have been taken by the beastsI am careful, I face them sometimes, always waryNever turn your back I'm told you could be devouredIn the blackest of nights they can take their victimsSome are left by the side unharmed, others dieI have faced one, sometimes two or three togetherThey are often small, others long twisting, turningThen they quickly disappear into the darkness. Douglas McClarty


It's A Small World In almost an instant,as the camera pointsWe see places, cultures,people struggling to surviveIf only we could stepinside that screenJust for a momentto be on that other sideNow what you see, you livethe reality of it allNot just watch, feel, smelllive others living hellOnly then will we realiseWe all need each other Douglas McClarty


Join The Club. Join the clubMembership freeI Don't qualifyI think you doSo many joinSo many leaveI'm in no hurry.It's compulsoryDon't I knowNot ready insideTo take the step.It's unfortunateBut it's for othersTo decide for youIf you're in or not.When will I knowIf I'm in our out?Just accept you're inThe time has comeYou reached that ageMemberships begunSo enjoy the benefitsI hope, for years to comeNow that you are finally clearThat you have become,A Pensioneer. Douglas McClarty


Just Being There I do not see you every dayOr every month or yearWe say no words todayOr tomorrow. no set timeYet no one breaks the bondIt's always there imprintedWho we are what we doOur paths have variedOur years travelled separatedBut our minds and soul still oneNever to forget our beginningsWho we are is unique, be proudIt's nice to know on this special dayWe are all still here if not together. Douglas McClarty


Just You A meeting of mindsKind words sharedSimilar thoughts, maybeSeeing you a treasureBeside me a pleasureA soulmate foundLoneliness conqueredWithout, I feel lostEven for a momentNo words need spokenThe invisible bond unbrokenShared moments and dreamsTears, sadness melt awayBecause you're there with me. Douglas McClarty


La Vinuela The morning mist settles on the lakeThe Shepherd leading his flock to drinkI hear their tiny bells clanging as they goThe Iberian sun rising from its sleep The mountains look grey this time of dayBut like a curtain raised their beauty unfoldsOlives trees dotted across the scorched landBrings the artists canvas live with green The blue lake sparkles in the warm glowI feel the gentle breeze cooling my faceI stand, I stare at natures beautyAs the white village above comes alive Around me the vivid colours of the landLantana sways in the gentle windBougainvilleas a pleasure to the eyeAlmond blossoms fall like confetti As Day passes Maroma the majestic mountainLike a Chamelion the colours changeGrey to green and finally redWhen the Iberian sun slips slowly to bed. Douglas McClarty


Let's Run Away The urge always thereTo roam, to get awayFrom the drudgery of it allWere everything seems greyCould there be a better lifeDreams of warm sunshineLying on golden sandsThe perfect paradiseLeave all worries behindBut it's not easy for meTo get up and go you seeFriends and family are hereAnd all that I hold so dearSome days seem darkBut when my eyes openI see you lying beside meYou brighten my every daySo if I want to ever run awayTo some island in the sunAnd if this could ever beTrust me my true love.It will just be you and me Douglas McClarty


Life Changing Moment I sat with others perplexed, lostHe stood staring straight ahead, silent.Not a word was spoken to the crowdMinutes past, still not a single soundLike a tailors dummy, this was really absurd Then he turned his back, chalk in handOn a blackboard he began to write'With every adversity' and then he stoppedHe look at all of us straight in our eyes, silenceFor minutes nothing said, then writing again, 'There is a greater or equivalent benefit'Nothing. We all sat, staring at a blackboardTry to make sense of the unspoken wordsLike the Budda sitting under a Bodhi treeEnlightenment was buried in confused souls. At we waited hunger grew in our greedy mindsWhat's is our master, our teacher, trying to sayStaring at the greatest salesman in the worldAnd yet the silence remained not a single soundAnd then lips of this phenomenal corporate star Stuttered, he stammered, 'with' took ages'Every' the same, 'adversity' even longer'There is a greater or equivalent benefit'Was for him the longest sentence in the world.But this man, his words they changed so many lives. Adversity should never be an excuse for failure.A salesman, sales trainer, chief executiveWith a speech impediment, could this ever be'With every adversity there is a greater or,Equivalent benefit'. Believe it, you will see. Douglas McClarty


Life In Axarquia (X R Key Ah) The mountain air is pureOn top of the plateauLooking at the still lakeTouched by a warm,light gentle breezeIt's silent, no soundThe white villages alive,The widows in blackBrushing passing leavesEveryday life in Axarquia. I gaze around the olive,tree covered landscape.An eagle circles overheadThe Iberian sun highlighting,It's golden stretched wingsThen I hear the tinkle of bellsI watch the Shepardleading his flock of goats.They drink from the blue lakeAnd then disappear over theGreen mountain path.Everyday life in Axarquia. Douglas McClarty


Living In The Heights. I could say we were almostextended familiesBut not related in anyway,We all lived on the estatewe called the heightsMore than neighbours,almost like a common market,a borrowed cup of sugarcould be paid backWith a few slices of bread,or a jug of milkA single shilling for the gas meteruntil payday no interest chargedWe had an almost open door policyNo one knocked, you just walked intoeach other's housesas if we lived thereA cup of tea was always shared,No biscuits or bunsSometimes on birthdaysWe had jellyOur new fourteen inch televisioncost us a few friends for a while,A jump to far,getting above ourselvesThen when they got to knowit was on the ticRelationships got back to normalreasonably quick.Nineteen fifty five was a difficult yearMy dad was unemployed,nearly broke his back at his nowNon existent job.The tic television was no moreSo to survive we would knock a few moreof our extended families doors,A bowel of sugar,a few slices of bread,helped keep our penniless family fed.


Douglas McClarty


Los Romanos On the mountain side Los RomanosSurrounded by ancient olive treesThe white village looks across the lakeMagnificent Maroma rises to heavenNow red in the hot midday sunYet a small sprinkling of snow on topVacant villas dot this Iberian landWaiting the return of those swept hereBy the cold northern windsRuins remain from those who passed byThe moors came from the Sahara sandscenturies before, leaving their markOrange, lemon groves abundantPlanted by their ancient hands, remain Douglas McClarty


Magical Place I had a dream to live near a stream or a riverSurrounded by trees green fields even a bogJust to get away from the grey smokey townNot to be smothered by noise and pollution. I found the place where I would build this dwellingI would sit on an old rusting gate looking at my fieldHours would pass looking at my patch of ancient landWild flowers set in a background of vivid green On top of the Livery hill the air was still and I could hearRippling waters passing by the ancient Celtic raithsAcross the valley the ruins, a monument to life beforeThe halls the rooms, the pitch pine floors hear no footsteps The cottage I built now stands in the Livery hillsMy dreams fulfilled laid out like a Giants graveThe destination to a searching soulA place to live out a life of tranquil dreams Douglas McClarty


Marble Hill Strand The water's cold grey and bleakAs it ripples around my purple feetBarefoot I paddle along marble hill beachI love to hear the seagulls cry and screechThe cold Atlantic winds chill my faceNow the tide has turned I quicken my paceFor I am alone, just me on this golden strandWater now almost covering every inch of sandThe foot marks of those who walked here beforeAre erased as the sea washes this desolate shoreI feel like a small grain in these long golden sandsWalking on this beautiful Donegal ancient strandI look across to Downing's on this stormy dayA rainbow appears in the centre of the bayThis place is truly one of natures treasuresA time to reflect on one of life's simple pleasures. Douglas McClarty


My Brother. No pill can ease the painMaybe time will I cannot tellWith us, then in a moment goneLeft with just memoriesSad at this moment in timeWaking up each day without youDark even though the sun shines. Where you have gone toYou will feel no more painWe know you valued everydayYou filled every hour in your own wayLeft behind lots of loving heartsIf only you could hear the remarks. I wish I could be what you wereWhat you meant to so manyThe people you filled with laughterAnd others you helped to ease their painThe day you passed away DavidWas a sad day for your Coleraine. Douglas McClarty


My Darkness. I am sitting alone looking at the lakeIn darkness illuminated by a waxing moonMy thoughts are as dark as the nightYet when morning comes it will not alterThe sun does not lighten the darknessOr brighten and warm a darkened soulThe lake will still be there no differentIts waters still dark, even in the lightonly when clouds disperse things changeYet it's not I who can make this melt awayI can only wait until the gloom disappearsBut I have to believe it always will for me. Douglas McClarty


My Great Grandmother. The plot was half an acreThat was her world her homeNever ventured far from hereNo need her life was all thereMother hen, mother gooseShe was all of themThirteen bairns washedclothed, fed and scrubbed.Until they left the half acreone by one gone to placesShe would never want to know.Some returned now and thenbairns to feast on her griddleSoda's, scones, jam and tea andbuttermilk from the half acre cow.Visits got scarce as the years pastAs each of her bairns passed awaySome in far away places, othersbeneath foreign clay.Yet she never left that half acreAnd now one hundred years gone byshe lies alone with fading memoriessheds a tear and gently falls asleep. Douglas McClarty


My Love From Cushendun The winds blow down from OrraAs I walk upland from CushendunThe Antrim hills now white with snowMake this treacherous journey slowNo man or beast was made to bearThe sleety winds you get up thereBut to see my Kitty, oh the love I feelIs worth every mile I walk, to loughguilleMy pockets now emptybut for a golden ringThe thought of her, my wife to beMakes me want to shout way gleeBut my steps on Orra are getting tougher nowAs I struggle waist deep in snowIt's going to take a bit more timejust a few more miles to goBut now, can't feel my freezing feetas I drift into the deepest sleepmorning time will come.. Clutching a ring beneath the snowmelting in the sunThe loughguille church bellsplayed a different tune.For my love from Cushendun. Douglas McClarty


My Tree. Could I ask, do you belong to me.You have been here my sixty yearsI love to see your changing beautyYou are growing old with meI have watched your naked formShivering in a winter stormThen slowly you put on that dressYour favourite colours for SpringYou dance and sway while I watchIn the gentle balmy summer nightsTo the songs played from your heartAs summer nights begin to fadeI love to watch you slowly changeInto your favourite warmer dressesDay by day I watch as you changeI stand staring at your stunning beautyWearing that golden Autumn dress.Could I ask, do you belong to me. Douglas McClarty


No Hiding Place He who carry's guiltCannot hide from the deedThe inner self will remind you. Douglas McClarty


Not Ready Yet The organist played solemn tunesAs the empty front pews began to fillThe timid sit to the back near the front doorWaiting on those who have gone before. Silence as the deceased is brought inThen all stand to sing the first hymnThe righteous sing, others just mimeFor this soul taken, before their time. Nothing said bad about their past deedsOnly happy stories as the service proceedsThen comes the sermon, that final blowAs he points at me, are YOU ready to go? I sit stunned, thinking I'm not ready yetHe said you sinner, not paid your debtThe wages of sin has dammed your soulRepent now before you're next in that hole. But I only came to say goodbye, to my friendNever thought a second about my own final endDo I want a crowd to sing hymns at my wakeWhen I know St. Peter will never open that gate. Douglas McClarty


Old But Happy Enemies are now my friendsWorries I have no moreYesterday's pain seems better nowCan't recall how it was beforeThe world seems to be a better placeDark days seem to have gone astrayI have never felt so happy nowAs my memory gently fades away. Douglas McClarty


On The Road To Agra Was on the way to AgraOn this road I sat amazedSo many animals on this busy routeA Zoo materialising in the hazeThere were camel trainsHerds of goats, Elephantsand packs of dogsThe lorries, cars, trucksjust moved with themin the stench, heat and smogSo many sacred cows wanderingmixing with the human crowdsWater carriers line the routedressed in sack cloth shrouds.When I step out to stretchmy hot aching joints, I realiseI am the attraction in this zooSo many bodies push and shoveTo get a glimpse of meAll is normal on the road to AgraBut for this new exhibit at this zooHands reach out to takeThey have nothing to giveUnless for the lucky few.I, m on the road to AgraI've seen life in the rawI know I will relive the memoriesOf everything I saw. Douglas McClarty


Past Good Deeds Days pass no thoughtsabout family, friendsUntil the calm waters of lifestart to ripple againSometimes a light breeze,then comes a stormLeaves fall, decay, forgotten,though once usefulPast good intentions erased,judged only todayFeel I am being punishedfor my past good deedsSuch is this selfish life,Hard to be popular alwaysBut is it worth while trying? Douglas McClarty


Past Regrets I made and shot the arrowit did not killIt just maimed a broken heart for lifeit was double sidedTwo hearts were brokenin a single shotThe hunter is now hauntedby his reckless aimAs the victim he once lovedis left with painRegret cannot be reversedthe shot was madeThe price for a thoughtlessact must be paidWhen their eyes meetthey both reflect the painI made and shot the arrowI now live with the shame. Douglas McClarty


Past Winters. As a child I hated winter daysWaking up to Jack's frosted glassLife's breath, clinging to the paneWishing I was born to hibernateI rush to the kitchen stove for heatJust to chill-out my frozen feetThen get into yesterday's clothesAfter toast and tea, a walk to schoolSit shivering, until a cold milk breakSchool over, get home before darkNo time to play on the frosty streetThere's chores to be done I play my part I became a coal man aged eight.No horse or cart to carry coke or coalJust a bogie made way wood and wheelsFrom yesterday's child's redundant pramTo Watts coal yard I made many a tripWay five shillings in my frozen handTo buy one bag of coal or cokeFor a hungry stove to fill and stokeMy socks will be dry for tomorrow's feetNow hung around the stove to heatSo up aloft to warm cold sheetsTime for a good long winters sleep. Douglas McClarty


Planting A Tree My field lay bare almost barrenGrass competing with rushesNatures stored energy wastedAs if it was waiting on me to decideWhat life form will this field provideI finally decided on some local treesOak, Ash and beautiful Silver BirchSome Wild Cherry trees and WillowThen Apple, Pear and a few plumMy field finally reborn new life begun.I watched my field as the years past byAs the field gradually changed its form Rewarding me with a true rich treasureI could never have found so much pleasure.Watching mother nature at her workGrowing trees now towering over meWith new guests arriving almost everydayVarious little animals and birds of preyBees, nectar abundant from cherry treesWild flowers planted by the gentle breezeRabbits, squirrels never seen here beforeNow feed and play on my forest floorA once barren field, now an oasis for meA world that I changed by planting a tree. Douglas McClarty


Politicians Visionary, hope of a green utopiaLike old hippies peace and freedom thoughtsRun riot with their prejudice and hateStirring the vile pot, nationalist prideThe charlatan selling false potions & curesHow can they live with the lies and deceitHelped to put so many in untimely gravesI am repulsed as I watch and listenThey are still there, white teeth, Armani suitsMakes no difference, their trust was sold.Still we allow the pied piper to play the tuneWe have been lead to the crossroads againAnd again. Douglas McClarty


Problems Who do you run to when you hit a brick wallWho do you turn to when you tumble and fallWho do you think of when you feel down and outWho do you cry to when your living in doubt When your Mum and Dad are not there for your painWhen your friends with their problems are not the sameWhen your sisters and brothers do not want to knowWhen your options are few and your feeling so low Were you are now, remember this, others have come toWere you want to go to, others are standing in a long queWere you have come from is not your final journeys endWere you are, just another troubled soul waiting to mend Douglas McClarty


Reflecting. I woke up this morning staring at realityThe reflection was of me, an older man.Yet inside this aging shell I feel youngI still have dreams of things I want to do The years have past by so quicklyThe people I rely on look like childrenThe doctor, dentist not long out of schoolNow everyday reminders of getting old The wrinkling brow and sliver hair, a medalFor I have arrived today, others haven'tThe beauty of the body may fade nowBut the beauty of my soul can flourish. I have more to give now than I every hadMore valuable than pots of gold or silverI have toiled many years in the fields of wisdomKnowledge, life's experiences unique treasure. I could remain silent refuse to share it allIf others on the same journey through this lifeHad not written or shared their harvestThen I may not be staring at the man I am now. Douglas McClarty


Reincarnation All that I am is held in the gods nano lightLook at the universe, the stars the powerYour eyes are cast upon tiny sparks of lifeThey are you and you became of themAnd you will return to them a different lightWhen the atom explodes it does not dieIt's reborn as part of the gods universeOf different form but still it lives to die againSo you and all you know will be forever, amen Douglas McClarty


Rey Del Noche By day duties callsWealth creating essentialTo fund his nocturnal journeysTo his palaces that are many. When the sun goes downDesigner robes come outFor this is his birthrightHe's the King of the night. The bars in the costa'sLay out the red carpetNo one gets in the wayOf Rey Del Noche Dark glasses and ArmaniEssential fake tanGirls just love himHe, s King of the night. On the floor of the discoFrom night until dayHe dances, romancesEl Rey Del Noche. Champagne and shotsAnd an odd San MiguelThis guy lives it upBecause he's king of the night A carriage awaits at dawnTo take him back to his throneSuch is the circle of the lifeOf, Rey Del Noche Douglas McClarty


Sailing Home We sat upon PegasusMy son, my friend and meOn a brisk Sunday morningWe set sail on the open seaSlipped moorings at CushendallNow facing a fresh morning squallThe telltales on the shroud revealedAs we pass through Rathlin soundFor we are sailing on Pheobus wingsTogether we battle the storm and rainThe spray stinging, burning our eyesOur course set for the town of ColeraineEight hours we struggled against the seaTrusting Pheobus to guide us safely throughAs he rode Pegasus a boat bearing his nameTrusting these gods the waters slowly calmedAs the sea fog lifted, we sailed towards landSaved by the gods, to sail with them again. Douglas McClarty


Sharing. That kitchen chair was thebest in the house,Sat between the cookerand the stove.On winter mornings it was alwaysa race to sit on that old wooden chairGet warm by the smelly coke fire.Arguments would break out aboutwho got there first.The oldest would demand it, soonto be ejected by Mum or DadThey ruled whose turn it was to havethat hard old chair.The losers went to the dining roomTo draw with their fingers on thetripled glazed windowsOne layer of glass with a sheet offrost inside and outside.Then breakfast toast and teawas servedA slice occasionally traded fora seat on the chair.Sometimes deals would be madeIf I get the coke for the stoveCan I have the chair.Sometimes it worked other times noDepended on parent power or moodsBut was always worth a try.Summer and Spring the chairsat lonely the stove was coldBut attention was turned to theone seat garden swingIt was easier to sharePushers and swingers wouldeach take there turn. Douglas McClarty


Silence How can I describe this silenceSitting on an Iberian hill at midnightNot one single sound, just nothinglight from a bright winter moonand from some sparkling stars This is food for the human soulI just sit and stare, my mind numbMy thoughts have been erasedI am totally at one with somethingThat I cannot think to understand. Douglas McClarty


Snowdrops. looking out a windowOn a bright winters dayUnder the cherry treeI see a beautiful display,Awake from your sleepYou bow so gracefullyIn the cool gentle breezeLike a welcome visitorArriving when you pleaseSo pure and so delicateA sweet shy white flowerAnnouncing winters endPretty little SnowdropsSo good to see again. Douglas McClarty


Social Unrest I cannot understand why you who worshipThem, who want you to suffer also, believe meIf you do not conform to their twisted ideologyYou will become a victim or a dammed martyr I have seen with my eyes the destructionWatering eyes, bottles of fire thrown.Feeling safe in the feral waring massOut of the gutter like rats they are vermin. No thought for how the story endsFor the innocent who stand and stareLike a bull attracted by a waving flagThey run like demented fools to the sword Douglas McClarty


Sorry A cold silence brokeNo more words spoken, afterBoth embroiled in a warof verbal destructionNow severally wounded.a standoff takes placeThey reconsider the situationTwo souls and minds bleedingWho will open the medicine chestThe cure is there, just takes gutsOnly the brave will surviveBut it's almost beyond beliefThey ponder, whose goingto administer, deliver, the antidote'Sorry' Douglas McClarty


Spanish Nightmares When I was younger than todayI dreamt of living far awaySpanish blue sky's days of sunJust endless retirement days of fun I found my Casa, love at first sightPaid a ransom to have all legal rightsLawyers, Notaries the local TownhallGave me titles, documents I had them all. Paid all my taxes year after yearThen the nightmare became quite clearYour house is illegal, on protected land, butI have all my legal documents in my hand. Now prisoner one hundred thousand and oneWho came to Spain to retire in the sunNow locked, living each day in this hellHave a so called illegal home that I cannot sell. They took my life's saving, I have no where to goWaiting each day for that one final blowInside I'm holding back my final screamsAs bulldozers come to demolish a lifetime of dreams Douglas McClarty


Staying Calm The wind is howling down the chimneySmoke from the burning logs uninvitedIn my now very hazy room,Watery eyes, coughing, cursing thesenever ending storms.The chimney cleaner will have a cleanface this yearas last years soot coversmy once cosy home.How long will this breath from hellContinue to blow Don't think the weather menEven know.Choking and splutteringI reach for the doorA blast from the stormAlmost land on the floorAnd then in a momenta flash in timeAll calmed, things areJust finePut down the shovel,and dirty brushSiting enjoying silence,that welcome hush. Douglas McClarty


Stormy Days I cannot see you, but you're thereGiven a name for every moodA delight to walking loversOn a blue sky sunny day Cursed by others. Lives ruinedBy your sudden treacheryNo one spared your wrathCut down in your chosen path Then as if nothing happenedNo apologies expectedLife, rebuilding goes onYou've proved your might again We love you when you're gentleYour warmth breathes life into allOr when I shiver on a still cold nightFor that moment you're held in awe. Douglas McClarty


Stranocum's Rath Monuments to wrath or woeNow animal trodden dug pitsDecaying homes lie vacantSilent, forgotten familiesJust melted like ice and snowUnder our feet remnants lieBuried snapshots undiscoveredWaiting for a thirsty soul to digUncover from natures gripSecrets beneath histories tip. Douglas McClarty


Sweet Dreams Our memories are scatteredlike pieces of a puzzleLittle bits here and there,past life in fragmentsSpilling out into ourthoughts and dreamsMore often bitter than sweetDisturbing a nightspeaceful sleepEach day adding tothe pile of junk.Though sometimesdreams come trueBe they are very fewBut that's whatmakes them worthwhileLike magic extractedfrom that file. Douglas McClarty


That Kiss That Never Came. Some of us had under clothesthe poorest of us had noneBut then who worriedwe all swam nakedin the bog burn poolA child of the fifties, mosthad empty pocketsBut our hearts were fullof fun and laughterSimple wants likebeing fed, a warm bed.No iPads, iPhonesThen, Just a red box inthe street for allA bit of green grassto kick a homemade ballWater to make a slideon the icy winter streetChalk to play hop skipand jump, and chasingfor the older girls and boysLooking for that kissthat never came. Douglas McClarty


The 13th Lucky Day A crisis meeting took placeIn our good room.With Uncle Willie, John and my DadI remember it was a SundayBefore the thirteenth day, they saidWe were all about to be blown awayOne bomb in Belfast will kill us allWas this all about Cuban cigarsWhy should the world end this wayI was now counting every precious dayShould we build a shelter in our backyardBut using our spade it would be to lateUnfortunately there was no way to escape.We watched our little black and white screenTo watch the Cuban crisis becomingOur very worse dream.As the Russian ships sailed to delivertheir cargo of doomSilence fell in our little front roomWe watched TV as president Kennedy saidwith a serious frown.Mr Khrushchev your ships must turn aroundLike watching the final of a football matchThe tension was building, who will winThey faced each other like matador and bullWill the red flag win or stars and stripsOr will both fall in the last bull ringthe final minutes past, are we all going to dieThen in a moment the Russians gave wayProving for history the 13th was a lucky day. Douglas McClarty


The Bee The field was a park, without trees or flowersI would climb our garden fence to enterI always loved the smell of fresh cut grassAfter the scythe men finished their taskIn summer we built haystacks and hutsHours could pass playing on these sunny days It's was on one of these, that I heard a soundI saw this boy go round and round and roundHolding a long cord attached to, I thought a beeOnly it buzzed louder than any I heard or could seeSo my friends and me went timorously to have a look It was a thing attached to string flying around and highThe boy who owned it was attached by lines to this beeIt went up, down and around but finally hit the ground.We all rushed with the boy to see if the bee was okayIt was silent as it lay on the ground I was sure it was dead. My spitfires broke I heard the boy choke, but it will fly againA little glue is all it needs, tomorrow it will look like newFrom that day I was hooked, I wanted my own flying beeSo for months I saved my pennies, until that special dayWhen I became like that boy, flying my own model beeIn the that special field, around the summer hay. Douglas McClarty


The Betrayal A great betrayal in life iswhen your doctor dies before youYears of advise binnedThe pills to keep me aroundAdvice now suspectnot that soundFeel like the pilotdied on the planeRest of my dayswill not be the same.I took every wordhe said as rightAnd took his pillsto help me sleep at nightThe drugs to keepmy pressure up or downEverything prescribed tokeep me above ground.Since he obviously decidedto quit before meI think it's only rightthat I should seeWhat advice and pillshe took day and nightPerhaps my alcohol, fat dietand smokes was alright. Douglas McClarty


The Bog Lane The bog lane was not far from our homesA place my pals and me to explore and roamWe fought battles with giants neither orange or greenWe crossed bridges over the bog burn stream We netted the sprickleys that swam in the burnWe made camp fires for tattles we found in the fieldsA feast for the adventurers when we tired that dayWe would eat the blackened spuds as we lay in the hay. The plantation that lay beyond the bog burnWas a place to explore from the huts that we madeFrom sticks and the branches that lay all aroundWe just huddle inside and sit on damp ground? Those sunny days when we were all freeSo much adventure for my friends and meWe searched for berries, picked them by handFor our mums to make some homemade jam. Home to the griddle and the smell of soda breadRecalling our adventures and then off to bed.Drift off to warm summer night dreamsSwimming and fishing in that Bog Burn stream. Douglas McClarty


The Countryside Wide open spaces, breathing freedomGreen fields, hedgerows and treesCows that moo, white sheep bleatingBirds, rabbits, foxes, and badgersButterflies and honey bees buzzingNatures art gallery, always openAlways different collections revealedColours change as the sky turns blueOr the red sunsets, then morning dewOr when the wheat turns golden from greenPainting a unique countryside scene.Some magic moments when the air is still,Across the meadow natures show beginsBlackbirds, Robins, Wrens and a CuckooSing their Spring and summer love songsNo sadness here, only happiness and joy Douglas McClarty


The Cruise Ship Not far from shores of plentyA swallows flight, no moreAnother ship of pleasure arrivesFrom their warm, cosy nights dreamsHere, will see others living nightmaresSome lost for words, Armageddon arrivedDefrocked children, like filthy rag dollsWandering streets with begging handsThey, like ghosts appears before themWith silver in their strange white handsWhat's changed for them, are they still slavesThey are free, but not for sale, just no buyersWandering, looking at this human zooNo one to feed or cloth these retched soulsand bid not for them, but only their bobblesTrophy's that become yesterdays storyAs the ship sails away for another shore Douglas McClarty


The Dance Hall They face each otherat the weekend danceThe rules always the sameThe battle of the sexes beginsSome lose others winMen choose, ladies refuseChaos as the music startsThe crowd mingle,searchingFor that lifechanging momentThe winners leavehand in handThe losers sitlistening to the bandNext set is calledhearts beating fastCould have been lives,look and walk past. Douglas McClarty


The Dark Hedges Like arthritic joints on displayHow did trees grow this wayDid evil hands plant the seedsAs a fitting monument to bad deedsDo the Hedges have a dark pastThey alone only know the mysteryLeft for others to stand and stareUgly but there's also beauty thereIf you travel along this narrow roadThere unique, mother natures artYou will marvel at how this could beOne dark night if lucky you might seeThe Dark Hedges Ghosts behind a tree. Douglas McClarty


The Fairies Dance I watched the misty moon that nightAs I walked along the Fivey RoadThough dark there was a sliver glowA beam from the heavens to the earth belowLike a giant spotlight shining on KnockgladeThen in a moment it began to fadeI stood in silence there was not a soundAnd then I felt inspired to look aroundFairies were dancing on Stranocum RathThey emerged in pairs from an open shaftThey were tiny, some dressed green others whiteI stood in awe at this wondrous sight.They joined hands in a circle dancing aroundHumming a sweet lullaby a beautiful sound.Then the circle broke they turned looked at meAnd beckoned I join them to sit on this tree.In the centre of the ring I relaxed on a branchI watch until dawn as they merrily danced.Then like the misty moon they faded awayAs the night changed to a bright sunny day.For years now I walk when there's a misty moonJust hoping to see them and hear the same tuneOnly I know, beneath that mound of green grassThere lives the fairies I watched dance,at Stranocum Rath. Douglas McClarty


The First Time The first time I saw her.Passing by, what made me stareStill after all these years I ponderWhy her, what was the attraction?There were others that drifted byBut this time something happenedA moment in time our destiny was writtenAn invisible chain locked two minds into oneThat day the arrows of loveFound two unsuspecting targets. Douglas McClarty


The Garden My dad would take a spade and digTurn the sods over in dry winter daysThey were left in the garden to dryWarmed by dry spring air we had soil Raked to and fro until smooth as sandThen land, laid out with blistered handsThere were beds, drills in neat little rowsPotatoes, cabbage, turnips and a hose? I stood looking for my dad to give the nodHose in hand waiting, I had the watering jobFor weeks I watered the vegetable rowsAs I stood amazed watching things grow. Then my daily watering job came to a stopAs we all gathered in the vegetable cropOur garden now looked so barren and bareUntil in a flash weeds grew, here and there The winter came. All plants withered awayAll that remained was a garden full of clayOut came the spade, dad digging the sodI knew I would be back soon to my watering job. Douglas McClarty


The Gerona From Spanish shores they sailedVictory was in the wind for RomeBut the gods turned against the tideGalleons scattered, evil plans died. Some set sail for home against all oddsNo one can defeat the might of the godsViolet storms and seas devoured so manyGerona, against all odds, she survives This vessel heavily laden with others savedFrom cold Irish waters, so many's graveThirteen hundred souls now taken onboardSent to convert protesters with the sword From Killybegs a ship full of dreams sets sail,for home, to Andalusian warm sunny shoresThe Gerona now sailing, unknown to oblivionFacing the finally battle, against the Celtic storms Lost, as she founders in the turbulent wavesDunluce rocks lay claim to this Galleons braveThe castle, a memorial to those Spanish soulsMay they rest in peace in their watery graves. Douglas McClarty


The Goat Herder Sunrise the herder sits on a craggy rockLeaning on his bramble crooked stickHe seemed oblivious to the multitudeSuddenly a whistle from his parched lipsEars cocked the herd moves on, chewingas they move down the valley bells tinklealong the dry trodden track to the lakeThe midday sun beats down as they drinkThen through the clear still air the whistleThe tinkle of the bells soon fades awayAs they climb hill after hill until the sunsets Douglas McClarty


The K Mcdonnell Trio I stood in smokey Masters barAccompanying singers on my guitarKathleen, Bernard would sing aloudEntertaining the drunken crowd The hazy lounge stale with stoutGive us a song, they began to shoutCome on Kathleen sing this and thatWhen she sang they silenced and sat The voice of an angel in Master's barTo hear Kathleen they had come from afarSongs that brought tears to grown menAs they sat fixated from seven till ten. At ten on the dot the music would stopAs McMaster called time to close shopThe last song of the night ended with joyAs Kathleen would sing. 'Oh Danny Boy' Douglas McClarty


The Kiss That Never Came. Some of us had under clothesthe poorest of us had noneBut then who worriedwe all swam nakedin the bog burn poolA child of the fifties, mosthad empty pocketsBut our hearts were fullof fun and laughterSimple wants likebeing fed, a warm bed.No iPads, iPhonesThen, Just a red box inthe street for allA bit of green grassto kick a homemade ballWater to make a slideon the icy winter streetChalk to play hop skipand jump, and chasingfor the older girls and boysLooking for that kissthat never came. Douglas McClarty


The Light If Jesus where her today would he be a ChristianWould he want to sit among the self righteous saved flockWho look down at others with their arrogant thoughts and mockCondemning them to Hell because they do not see it their way.Or because they are confused by their frozen views Would he condemn those who seek the truthJust because they would look for proofThese people who seek to use and controlWith rules that punish seekers of wisdom For to long the innocent have lived in fearJust to ask questions just to see things more clearWould Jesus have expected you to blindly acceptWhat you have been told is the ultimate truthhow dare you seek or ask for a little more proof. I think not, if he lived among us today.He would want the lost to find their wayThrough the jungle of lies and preachers of hateHe would be standing at the open truth gateTo help you find your own life's true fate. So throw of the shackles of mans self controlBecome your own seeker on the journey for truthForgive your own sins and learn from your pastYou know what is good and what is not rightYour own life's journey will lead to, the truth and light. Douglas McClarty


The Light Of Life From darkness the light of life is bornEach moment changing before our eyesNothing stands still as nature worksCreating masterpieces in a single blinkThat reflection or shadow there now gonereplaced with something new to see, hear, smellRipples turn to waves, black instead of blueClouds white or silver now changed to greyNature continually moving rearranging allYou will never be the person you were, againAs the changes that apply to all, apply to you.Nothing in life passes away, decay is new lifeOld will become new again, different but rebornAs light turns to darkness, nature never sleeps. Douglas McClarty


The Love Of Your Life. The most wonderful thing in lifeIs to have your loving wife.To love and beloved every dayTo share laughter and tears,that will surely come your wayGrowing old together looking backcherishing the memories sharedand hugging each otherwhen tears fall for sad moments.Recall the happy time spent together,lying in the holiday sunshineOr shivering in a winter fall of snowPlanning together other places to goJust need to tell you my loving wifethis life of mine would be worthlessIf I could not spend all my time with you. Douglas McClarty


The Movies I remember excited Saturdays standing in a crowdWaiting for the doors to open just to get a seat insideTo watch the Lone Ranger and Tonto ride across the screenAnd listen to hi ho silver as we ate our cold ice cream. The hazy smoke made us choke as we sat in the cheapest stallsThe torch light shone in our watering eyes if we made the slightest noiseSomeone let penny bangers off when a baddy shot his gunThe smell of gunpowder filled the air adding to the fun. When the doors flung open after the show we galloped unto the streetOur cap guns banging as we all shouted! Hi Ho Silver Away.Our destination was a reservation which sat on the top of a hillWe would cross the bridge below the ridge and all meet at Hillmans way. We would pass killowen where the Indians lived just above the old pates laneWe held our cap guns aiming high in case Geronimo had set aAs the sun went down we crossed open ground before day turned to nightAt Somerset ridge we looked at the aul bridge glowing in the fading light. My friend Billy and I and our trusty steeds had survived another cowboys dayIt was time to take off our saddles an things, leave trigger to eat some hayJust then I heard the big chief calling from our fort in drumard driveIt's late, getting dark time for bed, so get yourself back inside. Douglas McClarty


The Overton From the bridge I see my mother waveAs the Overton slips through the gentle surfFor Liverpool she is boundFrom Coleraine harbour my Dad and meOn my first adventure across the sea. At six years old I smell the seaAnd watch the seagulls call to me.On this rusting tub me dad and meAre sailing across the Irish Sea. Birkenhead I remember wellAs we approach her docks on a morning swellI see a foreign land with ship galoreAs me dad and me step ashore. The captain gave me a shilling to spendTwelve penny's to buy something grandMe Dad took me to some market stallsAnd way my pennies I bought me mum a shawl When we Sailed for home on the next new tideI remember the fear as mountain high wavesCame splashing and foaming over the side.At the barmouth she calmed and let us sail through And soon we where heading to the opening bridgeOn the Overton deck, me dad and meWe seen my mum waving way gleeMy journey had ended where it begunI was glad to be home way me dad and my mum. Douglas McClarty


The Perfect Holiday Can, t wait to get awayGot the tickets ready to goGot the case packed fullLeaving the torrential rainOff to hot sunny SpainThree hours at the airportTwo hours in the skyArrived hot exhaustedKids want to go homeWife having a breakdownAll part of the perfect holiday.Far from homeSitting in hot sunshineWhite bodies getting toasted brownBlue sky's a change from greyEating foreign fish and chipsSocks and shoes put awayTo hot to have a proper sleepOr to cool my swollen feetOne hundred bodies in the poolIn hot water, trying to coolSome redskins join the funIn the shade not the sunAll part of the perfect holidayLast day was cut in halfVacate your room at elevenCase full of holiday junkNow four kilos overweight£100 extra at checkin gateThree hours at airportNo money for duty freeA two hour flight back to rainAll part of the perfect holiday. Douglas McClarty


The Perfect Place To Live. One man one vote if we get itWill put things right for goodWe'll all live in peace and harmonyThe perfect place to live, love thy neighbourGreen tea with orange biscuits will be the normThere will be Paddy Sean, Billy and FredAll under one peaceful household roofYou see one man one vote is the missing link. But this green land was covered with peoples bloodIt the price you pay you see if we don, t agreeOne man vote will change everything wait and watchThe vote was won, what next just wait and seeIf the ten demands are met and prisoners are freeWe'll all live in peace and harmonyThe perfect place to live, love thy neighbour. Votes, flags, free to walk, born to pray in a different wayLet resolve all we are told one by oneThen they will agree to put down their gunsWe can live and work, hopefully see another dayWhen the battles won just wait and seeWe'll all live in perfect harmonyThe perfect place to live, love thy neighbour. Douglas McClarty


The River The babbling riverHas secrets, never toldI stand watching its watersOn a journey to the seaThen the circle, is rebornLife sustained, continualThirsty mouths quenchedEmpty bodies nourishedGods creatures cleansedJourney's started hereOthers have endedIt giveth and it takethSometimes ragingAnd then calm and stillCreating a perfect placeSoothing a troubled mindA place to reflect in silenceJust sit, watch and listenAll sounds blend with the riverNatures orchestra always thereAll creation is attracted hereAll understand its language. Douglas McClarty


The Roundabout I was told by them in my dreamYou had taken the righteous pathIt's time to take you on that journeyYour destiny now agreed and plannedThe coach I entered was small and blackAnd rode upon the smoothest trackMy fear mounting as I watchedAs we followed the beast with eyesRed like blood, blinking, staring, flashingLike a devil it made haste with speedAlways keeping this coach in sightNever letting us get nearI could hear the dark wind outsideIt was hissing and howlingHad the righteous been misjudgedHad the others before me, gone to hellJust then I seen souls on the other sideLike bright white angels they flew pastTheir destination I'm sure was heaven.Then in a moment the beast stoppedWe followed as it turned the way we cameI was breathless I just did not want to believeThe angels I seen just turned to red eyed devilsTo late to discover, maybe all tracks lead to hell. Douglas McClarty


The Silver Carpet Cannot walk on this silver carpetNeither can Kings, Queens or GodsIt stretches before me, almost unendingIn the morning it will begone, replacedBy red or gold, sometimes nothingArranged to awaken your sensesMany have painted the gods creationOthers like me just stand and stare.Beauty unplanned, laid before meEven on this darkest night, it's there.Yet in a moment, the carpet's liftedNow like a room in total blacknessThere is nothingness, souls disappearedThe mood now changed from night to dayAs this carpet weaver slowly, slips away. Douglas McClarty


The Silver Surfer. Would wait for the morning lightToss and turn most of the nightAnother day could start with little to doBut I always managed to see it throughWas not always like this before I got oldWas a real grafter so I had been toldAll those years experience tossed in a binWas just wasting away getting awfully thinI didn't play golf and I didn't have a dogMy whole life had been devoted to my jobSo from morning til night I would sit in a chairThe past was all I had, would just sit and stareThen I read in the papers about this new fadAnd bought it with my savings, a new apple iPadNow I have Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and moreThis silver surfer has a new life and friends galore. Douglas McClarty


The Social Ladder. My 'friends' who think they might just know me,in their passing hours, will they give me a tiny thought. Did I enlighten just one or more for a single moment,are there days when our thoughts might connect. Uncle john, I wrecked his only old black bike,kissed a girl in a bus shelter on a shivering night. Had a winning ticket, thousands lost that night,I told them all, yes it was me, I posted the details. How many votes will I get from what I displayed,would they stop to tick the box just for me, please. Did you think of me after you got your final count,could have been my tick that got you 'one sixty one'. I got fifty likes today, showing a picture of a dog,last week I got five for posting a selfie of me. Elvis would have got five million if he were alive,my life is now about results from all my 'friends'? I got depressed this morning not a single like,I posted my hundredth picture I took last night. I thought I looked great from that right side view,the results are in, I can't change what they think. My worst nightmares, bad dreams on a screen,have my never met 'friends' turned their backs on me. Like and love have the same meaning in this book,numbers, triple digits important on 'this social ladder'. Douglas McClarty


The Taxman Just think, if you lived a century agoPeople were poor because pay was lowBut then a tv, dog or driving licence did not existNeither did vat, council tax or a car tax disc.Like petrol tax, car tax, even tax on waterYou need a licence to marry your daughter.For the house they will buy will cost them a mintThe taxman cometh probably leaving them skintJust a little stamp duty is all they askOh and a little more on the heating and gasBut just remember its prudent to save.Your left over taxed money For a few more yearsAs Long as you remember he will cometh againTo take a further share of what you didn't spend If you save a fortune and leave it for othersHe will standeth at the front of the Que.Looking for what he the taxman is due.So we might earn a fortune but it's really not oursAre we much better off, when the taxman devoursHe's looking for taxes on you wages, your dog, your tv, your carYour part time job, your house, the insurance when dueEven if you need a rest that holiday flight you pay tax on that toYou pay tax when your born, when you marry and dieWe are prisoners under the taxmans controlWith the exceptions of the wise who stay on the dole. Douglas McClarty


The Wild Home And Colonial Boy At the age of eleven I was,the Home and Colonial boyI got ten bob a weekAnd a lovely green bikeTo deliver their groceriesBy day and by nightI delivered in snow,hail, storms and rainEven to the out backsIn the town of ColeraineTo Fernlester, the Heightsand the most of Calf laneI was the colonial boywithout the fame.Wild I might have beenI was just aged elevenBut I had this job from heavenI got tea and broken biscuitsAlmost every working dayI got tips and lemonadeAnd my weekly payI was the wildHome and Colonial boy. Douglas McClarty


To Old To Dream McDermott's second handfurniture storeWas on the Bedsford RoadColeraineI remember my da took methereI was only a bit of a weanHe bought me a wind upgramophoneI remember to this dayI would sit outside on our railingsAnd wind it up to playThe one record that came with itWas played over and over againUntil I could have sung it backwardsAs every word stuck in my brainNow fifty odd years later thatsong had a message it would seemThe song that stuck in my memory, was'When I grow to old to dream' Douglas McClarty


To Rich To Smile So many people, walking, going nowhereThe smells, the sounds, the poverty facing meThe smiles from children lift the darknessAs we mingle in the sweltering Mumbai streetsThe noisy avenues, cars avoiding sacred cows,tuk-tuk's of every shape and size, honking hornsDabbawalla's delivering food to hungry mouthsBodies lying under filthy blankets hands held outI feel like a white living ghost among dead soulsThey stare, no fear of me, or me of them as I passI watch sack clad bodies shuffle past looking in binsfor a morsel of rancid food to satisfy their starvation.And yet I have seen more smiling faces in a momenthere, than I have seen in western streets of wealth Douglas McClarty


To Sasha. Sasha died todayHeartbroken I must sayNo one understands the painHad her just seventeen yearsNow can't hold back the tearsShe was our loving friendWho was loyal to the very endShe sensed our every moodBe it sad, happy, bad or goodOur home will feel emptyfor a whileYou had that magicto make us all smileWe always new this day would comeAnd old age for you would be no funSo Sasha now that you're in doggie heavenRemember this....no walkies after eleven. Douglas McClarty


Together Always I want us see flowers growIn every colour and shapeTo discover ones we missedI want us to see trees grow tallWatch their autumn leaves fallSee them reborn again in springBut most of all I want us both to beTogether every second, minute, hourFor us to breath, see, hear and tasteWe will both share all life's pleasuresTogether, we see every colour, shapeWe will discover and treasure allAnd when our winter together comesWe will have all those warm memoriesTo recall in the dark nights that follow.Until all fades and we fall asleep together. Douglas McClarty


True Love Never Fades Two shadows walked hand in handAlong a stretch of golden strandBorn from the rays of a shining sunA reflection of their love just begun But time passes the sun slowly fadesThe shadows now follow knowing,What is here will soon begoneBut the love reflected will live on. Douglas McClarty


Watching The Clock Time seems to pass so quicklyWhen you're running out of itMinutes seem like hours for someWhile hours melt like snow for me So quickly all passes when you're olderFaces I have known, changed in a flashBabies now, grown men and womenAnother reminder of the fast ticking clock Good news becomes scarce each dayAs another name has just passed awayJust a little reminder from Father TimeThat no one will ever be, left behind So the passing minutes, hours and daysLive as if the clocks ticking, has just begunTime is still weaving a rich tapestry for meI am still here winding, and watching the clock. Douglas McClarty


Wet Summers used to turn the mangle handleSqueezing water from the washA weekly duty, a ritual preformedThe fresh smell of carbolic soapDrained from the cast off clothesWater splashing around my feetFrom newly washed clean sheetsThen like bunting hanging neatlyThe summer clothes line was fullAll sorts of colours, hung to dryIn a warm summers gentle breezeSometimes, a call all hands on deckPanic as it began to pour down rainWe would all rush out to gather inA spoilt harvest, now wet and soggySo back to the mangle turning againSqueezing out that summer rainBack to the clothes line to dry again Douglas McClarty


Where Have All The Shops Gone Where have all the shops gone.So many doors have closedOn so many others dreamsLife quickly changing, before our eyesThe high street shifted, to hands and kneeShopping around the clock non stopNow no need to pay for plastic bagsJust sit and wait on the next post dropMore paper, boxes and plastic all free.An old life disappearing, before our eyesA revolution silent, destroying livesStay at home, no need to go outEverything delivered to your doorFrom the cloud? Anonymous storesTalk, shop, everything for youWill of course, lead to more free time.So buy lift the tablet, mobile or PCHelp more shops shut, it's guaranteed. Douglas McClarty


Wishing You A Merry? We wish you a very merry what?What else have you gone and boughtAre you spending money we haven't gotOn things To make us all so happy What's makes some this time of yearRun like Lemming's to jump off a cliffGetting sentenced to a financial jailOr struggle to pay for a load of junk Happiness bought on the never neverThe bonus comes with a load of miseryStruggle to pay it off the next twelve monthsJust In time for a repeat of the previous year. This year give a present to bring you all joy.Forget the latest gadget, game or another toyGive a small amount to those in great needThe best present bought, your good deed. Douglas McClarty


Yesterday's News Life goes on I think I have seen it allMore suffering, disasters, just appallingWaking up from uneventful dreamsTo find for others their world is falling apart Then i listen to the petty words of the eliteNo comfort to thirsty souls struggling to surviveLook at the destruction has Armageddon arrivedUnfulfilled promises yesterday's forgotten news. How quickly we forget the continual sufferingMiracles seem to happen as the picture disappearsThe political classes have ate all the do good piesVoices of yesterday's victims have had their say The media masses start to disappear one by oneIn less than a heartbeat all is well lives renewedIt's seems we have been mislead by our historyMaybe, just maybe, Rome was built in a day. Douglas McClarty


You Are Forever All that I am is held in the gods nano lightLook at the universe, the stars the powerYour eyes are cast upon tiny sparks of lifeThey are you and you became of themAnd you will return to them a different lightWhen the atom explodes it does not dieIt's reborn as part of the gods universeOf different form but still it lives to die againSo you and all you know will be forever, amen Douglas McClarty


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