Colour Abstractions

Fragments and Traces of a Harbour.

The sounds of the pipe band practicing, the roll of the drums.
The sound of the boom, someone was in trouble at sea.
Leather boots on the cobble stones, men running in response to the lifeboat call.
The Blessing of the Graves, walking to the cemeteries, at St Mary’s, and The Abbey.
Stocking the fishing boat for the week ahead.
The sight of the waves crashing over the harbour wall in stormy weather.
The bus getting stuck on the bend of the hill behind the church.
Sitting in upstairs window of The Abbey Tavern watching passers-by.
Perry crisps with a tiny sachet of salt inside.
Playing on the 69 steps with the baby in the pram.
Nana’s front door open, always open.
The sound of her voice singing The Black Velvet Band.
Brendan Bowyer’s The Hucklebuck on the record player.
Grandan standing at the corner, cap on his head, cigarette held into his cupped hand.
Men in Sunday suits and the hum of prayer at the Blessing of the Boats.

Catherine Whelan