ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

I thought that I’d be coming back
to places that I knew,
from whereabouts
a million dreams away.

I thought familiar houses;
people that I’d known;
kids and dogs
on footpaths at their play.

I thought that I’d be coming back
to neighbours over fences,
sharing gossip
laughing at old jokes.

Just people, average people
moving quietly through their day;
cups of tea and biscuits;
serene contented folks.

I thought that yards and pavements
would still be well maintained.
The way they were
when all my world was new.

When the houses shone
with brand new smiles;
doors open to the world.
Hey neighbour - kettle’s whistling. Come on through.

Perhaps my memories fooled me.
It had been a long, long time.
I’d moved on
and so had they it seems.

So I asked the taxi driver
would he cruise around a bit,
while I sat
and drank an antidote to dreams.

Hi Wazza

Recently I returned to a neighbourhood where I once lived, and the place was unrecognisable. I couldn't get away fast enough.

Your poem replicated my feelings on that day, my expectations that little had changed, and the sad reality that they had.

Well written and very well expressed.

Cheers mate

Allan

Oh this is so very true Wazza - the last time I went back to an old neighbourhood I swore I wouldn't go again. Time moves on and people and surroundings change so much. This says it all, and I particularly like your ending.

Good one Waz.

Cheers, Marty

Been there done that Wazza, The worse part is when you are a gardener and the old place get let out as a renter and you see the destruction.


Best to hold onto the memories.



Bob

You might look different to them too Wazza

Thanks all ... common experience?
No Neville, I've maintained my youthful health and image. My former neighbours would recognize me in an instant. Take no notice of my photo. I aged it to suit the circumstances.

Thanks Matt. Had a great day on the Fitzroy Reef out from 1770.
Wazza

No man or place stands still. Sometimes it's better not to go back.

I was at 1770 many years ago Waz. My kids were only little and I remember them running along the beach there. I'm guessing it's a place that wouldn't have stood still either. I think it was a dirt track to get there back then.

Heather

And it is a nice big fish - you have the photo to prove it!

Yes Heather - all of those little Queensland coastal spots from back when are now big money real estate.
Wazza