I wander now the paths of Pompeii,
Where the ash is scraped away,
Revealing places of another day.
Again sun shines on sculpted stone,
Nigh on two thousand years have flown
And here I contemplate alone.
A sentry faithful at his post,
Tied to duty, now a ghost,
Just one of the perished host.
Vesuvius spread its fatal rain,
Causing all to gasp in vain,
Soon released from fear and pain.
A mantle o’er these buildings hoary,
Forever gone the pomp and glory,
To create the eternal story.
Mighty endeavours now I find,
Buried stone and streets here lined,
Tribute to the labours of our kind.
Monty Alexander 25.11.2012