Tolling of a Bell

by John Herlihy

The tolling of a bell is a mysterious affair,

Tantamount to being the whisper of a prayer.

Evocative of ancient memory of the world born,

Whispers of love and life out of eternity torn.

Rhythms of a metronome sounding as a drum,

Reverberating thru the church as sacred hum.

A complement to the silence of a church nave,

The pungent aroma of incense floats as a wave.

The bell echoes base notes of primitive harmonies,

Arousing within the heart cave touching sympathies.

Sounding of the gong represents the passing hour,

The solemn dirge as expressive as a beauteous flower.

Reminiscent of sacred things as forgiveness and mercy,

Therein lies the mystery of its resounding beauty.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Friday 13 June 2025