Back Space

A poem in the style of a well-known poet reflecting on the Apollo 11 mission

Ring out the mighty bells of Bow And all the streets with flags festoon For, half a century ago, Apollo landed on the moon. I often dream that we were there One giant leap from all mankind, With earth-glow lighting up your hair And bombed-out Slough left far behind. I’d see you looking quite divine, My burnished, strong-limbed, fearless love, You, in your space suit, I in mine Beneath the twinkling stars above; Let politicians rant and rail For mad and sad they’ll always be While we in gay abandon sail The calm Sea of Tranquillity.

(John Betjeman)