The chisel are old, before my time
made of Sheffield steel, the best
I bought them second-hand many years ago
as it turned out a good invest.
I didn’t know the craftsman then
I never knew his height of skill
and the wood he carved and chipped away
certain I know I never will.
But when I cut and par and chop
and turn out something quite unique
a mermaid, Griffin or snake’s head
the chisel have a life, so to speak.
Chippings on the floor around my feet
I can’t remember cutting them
the craftsman working through my soul
though long dead… he carves away again.
© D Marsden 2019
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