Ganges Poem by Douglas McClarty

Sitting on a Steam train, going to Belfast
Leaving Coleraine Station I sit alone in fear
For I have sold my life I'm just in my fifteen year.
No hugs, no kisses no tears from mum
I sit alone on this train just feeling numb.

I have joined the Navy I accepted the queens half crown
I have to make this journey to a place near Ipswich town.
Oh god I've sold my life away my freedom has been bought
But I suppose when you have half of nothing you just accept your lot.

I had never travelled far from home and this was new to me
I had been on my own to Belfast once but never across the sea
No money in my pocket just a warrant in my hand
I was now very far away in a very foreign land.

The life I knew was dying with every click of the track
For now I was on this journey there was just no going back.
My journey ended at Ganges the ship that became my hell
I felt i was trapped in a prison marking time to the bosun, s bell

I remember the day the Captain said, have got anything to say,
Before we pass punishment, I said for what
You tried to run away, I just wanted to go home I said
But six cuts on your buttocks dripping blood on the ground
I think it's fair punishment, you accepted our half crown.

My fifteenth year has since long past yet I still feel the pain
Lashed by a faceless captain was far from being humane.
Looking back has made me stronger I value everyday. I'm free
To do, to go, to breath and just to know my life's controlled by me.