Driven

Written after seeing a photograph of George Mallory's childhood home, (British explorer and mountaineer 1886 - 1924), where his love of heights commenced.

tall turrets tower
towards sky's ceiling
on a sunlit morning
where a neck stretches
with ambition

a route map for a
reckless small boy
as he ascends
climbing his potential
a dream for heights

he finds footholds
in red brickwork
honing his skills
imposed on Victorian
splendour where he dares
to scale upwards
and outwards

on to a sloping roof
of his family home
lithe limbs move
sans fear
as young Mallory
peaks then descends
time and again

paving the way
for days ahead when
Everest loomed large
inviting possibilities
of both glory
and death

Reviews

[Fabian G. Franklin]

The mountain climbers are an incurable breed of thrill seeker. I've climbed a few mountains myself but not that sort. And I have scaled ravines of solid rock that a fall most certainly would have meant death . BUT...it was because I was fishing or swimming in the waters below. I also used to enjoy hiking out in nature (my legs won't support me anymore) but at that height eagles and hawks soar by mere feet away and I could see miles of breathtaking scenery. Mine wasn't the thrill of the climb or to conquer the mountain but just to enjoy the riches nature offered there. I wouldn't want to climb the barren Rockies or Everest, nothing there but snow and rock and ice. And the air is too thin to breathe at the edge of heaven. I understand a little of why men do it. It just never held any personal appeal for me. I enjoyed your poem about this mountain climber and explorer. I've been a resident of the Appalachians most of my life so I have enjoyed mountains as well in the oldest range in the world. But I'll leave the taller peaks to the thrill seekers. Great read.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for that wonderful share Fabian. I prefer to look at mountains. I have a terrible fear of heights, but an admiration for those with a pioneering spirit. Have a good week-end.

Chris

[Fabian G. Franklin]

You too, dear poet. F.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

Oh, this is so good.
Youth's foreshadowing of adult's exploration.
j.

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you J. Pleased you enjoyed this one.

Chris

[Crowley]

When I was young, I didn't mind the heights so much. Although I still love the views my inclination is somewhat less. Great subject matter and an immaculate piece of writing. I enjoyed this very much!

[Chris Shaw]

Thank you for your thoughts Crowley. You are appreciated.

Chris

[Bryan Sefton]

Wow Chris! I have read Mallory's life story but this so beautifully shows us the joy and excitement of his youth.
You must be so satisfied with this picture you've painted.

[Chris Shaw]

Bryan, thank you so much for being the first to call. Pleased you too have read his story. A fascinating and driven life, cut short. Such an inspirational character.

Chris

Chris