I'm enjoying a rare visit from my father, he never ceases to amaze me.


The Hobo



Glasses perched precariously on the end of his nose
He brings the pencil to his mouth
Habitually licking the tip before placing it to paper

"You know, when I draw these guys, it's like
I am drawing somebody who had already lived,
and I am here, telling his story here on the page."

"It's like I don't know who it's going to be 'till they come out,
they have personalities, tools or beers in their hands,
dressed for whatever they do... characters!"

I smile, brush the soft fine hair from his forehead
And replace it with a gentle kiss
"That's what makes you true artist Dad."

"Bah", he says, "I'm just a semi-retired publican."
His regretful eyes return to his drawing, and I watch
Like I did as a girl, and in minutes, he creates "The Hobo".



Poetry by Purple Phoenix
Read 837 times
star mini Editors' choice
Written on 2009-05-21 at 06:18

dott Save as a bookmark (requires login)
dott Write a comment (requires login)
dott Send as email (requires login)
dott Print text


Chris Fernie
Dear Purple Phoenix,

Your father's characterful drawing and your loving word-picture of him make a great union on the page. Have you ever considered inviting him to illustrate your poems? What a duo you would make!

Cheers, Chris

PS I've just looked again at 'The Hobo' - has your father ever met me? The likeness is uncanny.
2009-06-12



The drawing is wonderful, as is your tribute to your father. His description of how he never knows exactly how the pictures are going to turn out in the end could also apply to writing. Sometimes, a poem just seems to take on a life of its own. Enjoyed this immensely.
2009-06-10


Editorial Team The PoetBay support member heart!
This text has been chosen to be featured on the front page of PoetBay. Thank you for posting it on our poetry website.
2009-06-10



in a few lines you capture the man, the artist, the relation, the history ... such a warm and generous picture. Really lovely.
2009-05-21


Elle The PoetBay support member heart!
A tender and warm poem, the affection stands out in this between father and daughter - and a wonderful picture :-)

Elle x
2009-05-21


penfold18
An artist in his own right none the less and reading this creativity runs in the family,nicely written piece.
2009-05-21


Brian Oarr
He may protest, but secretly every father revels in his daughter's love. You did his drawing proud, Rache. :-)
2009-05-21