March 25, 1997 Pact anne

A bridge so far

Atevening

Ithangs

Like a string of diamonds On the flushed neck

Of distant western sky.

Then at dawn

It stretches

Spindly and grey,

As if some giant spider Had begun her web Andnever finished.

But come closer now;

View the handiwork

Of strength, symmetry, and precision Fabricated in an open womb

By Human genius.

A bridge to link

An island with her neighbours.

Prophets of doom

Cry that here we have Progress in reverse. Surely a gentle way of life Will wither and die.

And as in ancient rhyme Of London Bridge

All will tumble down.

But seers who view This engineering feat With hope and favour Cry that here indeed Is the epitome : Of modern Progress.

Away with trains and boats! Freedom now

to come and go.

Truck and trade

Will prosper more

Than those with

Shorter sight

Could possible envision.

Buy yet, not doubt,

Some wary travellers

Will view this chain

Of concrete monoliths

As frail and weak

Against the power

Of Neptune’s lashing waves.

_ And as always, Relentless Master Time Will judge the merits

Of a bridge so far.

- Gladys McIntyre