The Poetry Corner

The Chain Gang

By John Le Gay Brereton

Borne in the car along a crowded way, Sun-soaked, I saw the world like shadows glide, Or phantom boats, upon a running tide, Driven through flying fog at break of day. The chain gang? Yes, I heard a woman say, Here in this very street. I glanced aside And saw the fetters that she flashed in pride, And turned again to watch the worlds array. Clearly I saw men scurrying on the hour, Young girls who weary all day on dainty feet, Dandies whose socks betoken infinite pains, The life that springs and withers like a flower: I heard the gangs go clanking down the street, Intolerably patient of their chains.