He takes the lumber
lays it out
meticulous metal square
measuring, marking
It has been his trade
a lifetime
moving slowly now
eyes masked over
still the walls stand
the timbers hold
the nails are driven
lines on his hands
run like a forest
of dotted trees
woodwork crafted
dignity and quality
the world has now lost
wearing a trade symbol
on his shoulder
delving into the
essence of work
taking a mound
of lackluster lumber
creating it into
something
pride mixes with sawdust
and scatters before him
standing there in that
sun speckled moment
paying homage to those
who taught him well
the rebuilding of old houses
the mending of souls
Nice to appreciate such an old craft and one of the few where there is still a lot of handy work involved. My husband’s grandfather was a carpenter and he built the house they lived in for many years. I know there was a time when the family was going to lose the house and my husband was heartbroken but I think his uncle managed to salvage it.
Oh that’s a neat story, hopefully they managed to keep it. Yes the time-honored craftsmanship is much different than today when a bunch of workers get together and put an apartment complex up in two weeks with rather shabby results. I am a big fan of old houses, my house was built in 1930 but looks more like 1920 (probably because people in this area are at least 10 years behind the rest of the country, lol).
Yes, I love old architecture too. It’s so charming. Too bad that it also comes with a lot of maintenance….even if it tends to be more durable than the newer buildings. Everything gives out over time!
Yes that is true….especially plumbing, I know about that one 🙁
Oh boy! That’s one reason I’m glad I live in an apartment now.
Such skill and dedication in many of those old crafts – and many of those skills are passed down through the generations. Through your poem, I can picture him working away at the lackluster lumber and the pride he feels when something wonderful emerges.
I have a house that was built in the 1930s but looks more like 1920’s Art Deco. There is some amazing workmanship in the house. I am a big fan of old houses, but many people here prefer to let them decay and build nondescript houses in the suburbs which I think is a rather sad statement on society, but that’s just me, sigh….
Anyone who loves the past and what our ancestors achieved, would feel the same as you (and I) do L.T. It’s heartrending to see ancient monuments destroyed, or even buildings of only a hundred years old. They should be left intact for future generations to enjoy and learn from.
My sentiments exactly. Geez, people these days…..
They have no sense of heritage at all! 🙂
Great – for some reason, reminds me of Annie Proulx …
Thank you, and thanks so much for reading.
🙂
Thank you! 🙂