The Green Row Boat

Moored at the side of the Grand Union Canal, the deteriorating paintwork on the boat matches the fatigue and neglect of its surroundings. Container plants on the bank look spent, the gazebo next door is falling down enhanced by the yellow vine leaves, the chiminea is rusted, the red leaves of what might be an acer droop over the prow. Given all the flotsam in the water, it reminded me of the Lady of Shalott. I wonder if it goes anywhere.

But I liked the view.

Len, Basil and I walked a short way along the towpath before returning to the car. No brownie points to the Boat Inn that had told us to vacate the car park. The landlords have closed off the seating at the front and put locks on the gates so that it's no longer possible to access the path. Cutting off nose to spite face comes to mind.

moored by canal bank
flaking green paint reveals red
slumbering quietly