I Remember Clarke Quay, Singapore Poem by Andrew W.K. Yip

I remember Clarke Quay, Singapore
Andrew W.K. Yip

The coolies carrying cargo crates are gone now
Time and tide carried away the barges, and bum-boats.
They've drifted off in tides of cliché; the magic wand of time changed all,
Leaving behind worn-down warehouses in new coats.

The tourist trade had sifted the river, its waters swelling now
Not with cargo trade but pride, a top tourist spot for sure,
In twinkling lights along the quay,
With alluring sights and sounds like a tourist lure.

The boat house at the corner stands still
A colonial restaurant today; a mockery of days gone by,
Almost forgotten, except
For this single astute eye.

Photo: Clarke Quay 1950s by Yip Cheong Fun, FRPS, EFIAP