- Old World Clock
Today we placed you lovingly
on our wall, took the century-old key
and wound you gently. It's been awhile--
once again, your quiet voice filled
the room like a lullaby, and those reliable
pendulum movements ticked out
subtle heartbeats. While time slipped by,
barely noticed, comfort emanated
from your graceful hands. We cradled
you between a landscape and a portrait,
but your beauty was only enhanced,
not diminished by their colors.
Then, as evening grew, your Bavarian chimes
signaled bedtime. Halfway up the stairs,
I looked over my shoulder and, in the language
of your maker, I whispered secretly:
gute Nacht…
