Across a half-drunk pint of cider,
and part-ate Welsh cakes on a plate,
a wall of photographs
of unknown scenes and unknown people,
their halfway lives therein depicted
on partial journeys’ partial aims….
In solemn grey there was portrayed
a double decker tram for Mumbles,
wires overhead bestowing power,
some passengers embarking,
last century their style…
but like their fashion, gone the tramway,
no relics, just a tarmac path,
a Summer road-train for the tourists,
and cycle path, and weary feet….
lives Snaefell Train on Isle of Man,
the fleet on Blackpool promenade,
Volk’s Railway working Brighton strand –
but Mumbles’ Tram was forced to fade?
Their charm too costly for restoring?
Not judged as worthy green attraction?
Its use not popular desiring?
Too strong descendant pathway’s faction?
Forever just a photo hung
on wall of the Llanrhidian pub,
seen over glass now void of cider,
like Welsh cake crumbs upon a plate!
————
Words: Martin Perry
Illustration: Jason O’Brien
First published in Welsh Country Magazine Jul-Aug 2017
