'Shelter - this way' (Grandmother stories #2)

by Michael   Sep 12, 2018


Again I reminisce of stories you told me..

...into the bunker,

not a word passed our lips, whispering was too loud!
we held all our fears, anguish and anger all under one roof of our breath
wondering if we would ever smell the air outside again

the smell of cement stuck in my mind

a large half torn picture of Perry Como
stuck to the inside of the wall

“my dream boy, he was”

she’d say.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Flocking together like birds in a nest

(with thatched corrugated tin-roofs)

the sound of explosions rattled through our bones
shells echoed;
like thunder raining down
with the ground shaking beneath us

we huddled together
children under the wings of mothers
squeezed for dear life and hope, poor dears

I distinctly remember my Grandmother saying-

“faith wasn’t built into the bricks and mortar, but in the
loving arms that sheltered all the little ones!”.

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Latest Comments

  • 6 years ago

    by CJ Maleney

    Judges comments

    'Shelter - this way' (Grandmother stories #2) (by Michael) 7 points

    As someone of a certain age I know quite a lot about the world wars. I read books and stories of battles, victories and defeats. My step grandfather was also a concentration camp survivor who was originally from the Ukraine.

    This poem tells a story of a different kind of hero, those who strive and toil to keep their family and loved ones safe. It's not a tale that is often told and I think it's only right that the efforts of these special people are recognised.

    Michael has shared something in this poem that is quite special and is such a fitting tribute to someone he clearly loved.

    Thank you for sharing 7 points

  • 6 years ago

    by Ya----Na

    Michael this one should definitely win. The best part about your poems are the details. You guys are amazingly talented.

    • 6 years ago

      by Michael

      Sg
      Thank you and for such inspiring comments M :)

  • 6 years ago

    by Milly Hayward

    The people living through those times had little what with rationing and shortages and faced stresses and loss of homes and loved ones yet they rallied around shared more and showed so much courage and love to each other than the people of today. There are so many good lessons that todays society can learn from the elderly. All my best wishes Milly x

    • 6 years ago

      by Michael

      Indeed Miss Milly, and thank you :)x

  • 6 years ago

    by Mr. Darcy

    Nominated - super work.

  • 6 years ago

    by Brenda

    It is scary to know what your grandma and your family went through. To be huddled in a bunker with debris raining down had to be terrifying. Hugs to you-

    • 6 years ago

      by Michael

      Thank you Miss Brenda :) Yes something I wouldn't like to experience for sure! Hugs M:)x

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