Writing ODES To Everyday Things

I found myself rummaging through my wardrobe and came across a collection of old ties. I rarely wear ties anymore, but there was a time when I wore a tie regularly during my days as a school administrator. They were always bright, some would say, garish.

My aim back then was to add some colour to the day. They became a talking point for staff and students. My ties were varied in colour and quality. Somewhat questionable strip of cloth, you might say.

These days they just hang in my wardrobe as historical artifacts. The discovery of those ties has inspired me though. It has inspired me to write an ode to everyday things!

The poet, Pablo Neruda devoted a whole volume of poems to simple objects. Ties certainly fall into this category. An ode to one of my ties seems therefore acceptable. It has brightened an otherwise drab day.

Ode To A Tie

We once hung out

Quite regularly

You used to hug my neck

And keep my collar neat and tidy

You protected my shirts

From crumbs, stray morsels

And Thai food stains

You were the colourful one

Draped across my shirt

An eye catcher

In those days

You went to school with me

And your dazzling presence

Your pattern of bright flowers

Snapped eyes to attention

You were a carpet of colour

A strong statement on an otherwise

grey day

You served me well

That is why

You remain with me

We are tied

Forever

Alan j Wright

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